Phil Burgess returns for England Sevens

ENGLAND Sevens welcome back familiar faces for the Cathay Pacific / HSBC Hong Kong Sevens on March 27-29.

Dan Bibby, Phil Burgess, Dan Norton and Marcus Watson return after missing the last leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series in Las Vegas.

Former England Under 18 international Josh Watkins joins up with the squad alongside Worcester Warriors team mate Richard de Carpentier who comes in as a late replacement for the injured John Brake.

In a tough pool England face a strong Welsh outfit on Friday (10:10am GMT) before taking on Kenya (3:12am GMT) and USA (8.42am GMT) on day two.

England currently sit fifth in the standings, three points behind nearest rivals Australia in fourth.

Head Coach Simon Amor said: “It is great to welcome back a number of experienced players, Dan Bibby, Phil Burgess,  Dan Norton and Marcus Watson.  They were part of the squad who reached the final in Hong Kong last year and, even though they have had limited game time recently, their understanding of the tournament will be valuable for the young and new players such as Tom Bowen and Charlie Hayter.

“It is exciting to include Josh Watkins, a young and talented player, who will develop through the opportunity of playing in such an incredible tournament.  We are continuing to build relationships with professional clubs in England and are very grateful to Worcester Warriors for releasing him and Richard de Carpentier to us.  John Brake’s injury required a late change and we are delighted that Richard will be able to build on his recent experience from Wellington and Vegas.

“The history and prestige that come with the Hong Kong event make it very special. The crowd is wonderful, they offer a really big lift for the players with a huge cheer when they run into the stadium. I know the players really thrived off that last year and we are very much looking forward to getting back out there.”

England Sevens squad for Hong Kong

Dan Bibby
Tom Bowen
Phil Burgess
Richard de Carpentier (Worcester Warriors)
Alex Gray
Charlie Hayter
Tom Mitchell, captain
Dan Norton
James Rodwell
Josh Watkins (Worcester Warriors)
Marcus Watson
Jeff Williams