As the HSBC SVNS Series gears up for its return at the end of November, the buzz is palpable. The question on everyone's mind is: who will shine in the fast-paced, Olympic-qualifying format? While many stars will emerge from the sevens pathways, I believe that international XVs rugby could be an untapped goldmine of talent. The Nations Championship and Nations Cup have already showcased how sevens players can excel in the shorter format, but what about the XVs stars? Let's take a closer look at eight players who could light up the SVNS Series circuit.
Max Jorgensen - Australia
Max Jorgensen is a breakout star in XVs rugby, and his impact is undeniable. His famous try after the siren against England at Twickenham in 2024 was a game-changer. But it's not just that one moment that makes him stand out. Jorgensen's strong form for the NSW Waratahs and tries against the British & Irish Lions, South Africa, and France showcase his versatility and skill. In my opinion, he has the potential to elevate the Wallabies to new heights. His ability to finish in crucial moments is exactly what the SVNS Series needs.
Henry Pollock - England
Henry Pollock is a showman, and his match-winning cameos off the bench for England are legendary. His form for Northampton screams effort and dedication, earning him the 2025 Premiership Breakthrough Player of the Season Award. What makes Pollock particularly fascinating is his ability to get the crowd into the game. While he may be polarizing, his show-stopping moments could bring a new level of excitement to the SVNS Series. I think he would be a brutal carrier in the sevens format, adding a unique dynamic to the circuit.
Antoine Dupont - France
Antoine Dupont is already an Olympic gold medalist, but his transition to the sevens format is intriguing. With only one year of experience in the shorter game, Dupont's impact on the French team was significant. His presence brought out the best in his teammates, and I believe he could be a game-changer again. The 2026-27 SVNS series might be the perfect stage for him to defend his gold medal. His return to the sevens circuit would be a significant development, and I'm eager to see how he adapts to the new format.
Canan Moodie - South Africa
Canan Moodie is a World Cup winner and a rising star in South African rugby. His sheer size and speed make him a dangerous winger, and his ability to finish tries is impressive. As the second-youngest player to represent the Springboks, Moodie has the potential to be a game-changer in the SVNS Series. His inclusion would be a strategic move, utilizing his size and speed to tear teams apart. I think he could be an ideal weapon for the Blitzboks, adding a new dimension to their gameplay.
Renee Holmes - New Zealand
Renee Holmes is a force to be reckoned with, and her transition to the sevens format is a natural progression. With a World Cup win under her belt and 30 caps for her nation, Holmes is renowned as one of the most dangerous fullbacks and finishers in the world. Her speed and versatility, combined with her quality kicking boot, make her an ideal candidate for the Black Ferns 7s. The fact that she hasn't played in the sevens format yet is surprising, but all signs point to her making a successful transition. I think she could be a game-changer in the SVNS Series, adding a new level of skill and excitement.
Desiree Miller - Australia
Desiree Miller is a versatile and talented player, and her speed and versatility make her an ideal candidate for the SVNS Series. As one of the highest point-scorers for both her provincial and international sides, Miller has the ability to adapt to the shorter format. Her developing ability with the boot is an added bonus, and her interest in the SVNS Series is a positive sign. I think she could be a valuable asset to the Aussie 7s program, bringing a new level of competition and excitement.
Josivini Neihamu - Fiji
Josivini Neihamu is a name to watch in women's rugby, and her transition to the sevens format is a natural progression. With a promising form in the centres during the 2026 Super Rugby Women's season, Neihamu is being touted as an exciting long-term prospect for the Fiji 7s. Her inclusion on the circuit feels like a 'when' rather than an 'if' scenario. I think she could be a game-changer, bringing a new level of skill and excitement to the women's SVNS Series.
Morgane Bourgeois - France
Morgane Bourgeois is a talented player with a quality kicking boot, and her impact on the French national side and Stade Bordelais is undeniable. With 18 caps and two titles to her name, Bourgeois has been a regular feature in French rugby. Her performance at the 2025 Rugby World Cup, where she finished among the top point scorers, showcases her ability to shine in the shorter format. I think she could be an eclectic weapon for the French 7s team, adding a new dimension to their gameplay.
In my opinion, these eight players have the potential to light up the SVNS Series circuit. Their skills, experience, and adaptability make them ideal candidates for the fast-paced, Olympic-qualifying format. As the series approaches, I'm eager to see how these players perform and how they adapt to the new challenges that the SVNS Series brings. The future of rugby is bright, and these players are at the forefront of that excitement.
