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Four core sides taking part in this summer’s UK National Sevens Series head abroad this weekend for the 39th edition of the world famous Amsterdam Sevens.

Defending champions in the men’s tournament, ULR Samurai International , are aiming for an incredible sixth title in-a-row at Sportpark de Eendrach.

Other National Sevens Series side out to halt Samurai’s dominance include the HFW Wailers, captained by Scotland International Scott Riddell, who was not required by the national team for the IRB Sevens at Twickenham.

The Wailers lost out to a Chris Ashton inspired Samurai a year ago in a fascinating 19-15 final, despite a late onslaught.

The Gilbert Pups make their first showing of the season and usually perform well in Amsterdam, despite being thwarted by the relentless Samurai over the years. The Pups head to Bournemouth the following week as preparations intensity for RugbyRocks on June 12.

The Marauders, runners-up in Kinsale, are another side with the tools to disrupt Samurai, drawing 10-10 with them in Bury recently.

Outside of the National Series core sides, renowned Amsterdam side like Susies Saloon and Mel’s Exiles can expect to feature in the latter stages.

The Pacific Chiefs will be an invited team at the third leg of the Natonal Sevens Series in Manchester and are also in the Amsterdam draw. Mike Umaga play with the side also being looked after by Trevor Leota.

The Black Stallions are the development side of the Nigerian Rugby Football Federation and make their Amsterdam debut. They played in the Dubai Sevens in 2009 and lost to the Russian team YUG 12-10 in the final of the International Plate.

Wooden Spoon, runners-up at the Sunshine Sevens, will head over from the UK and will look to make up for a disappointing performance a year ago.

The format for the Men’s Sevens will be the traditional 60 team format with 12 pools of 5 teams on Saturday.
In the Ladies competition the national teams of Spain and Germany will compete, challenged by the likes of Susies Valkyries and WOP.

Olymp Ladies who include members of the Kazakhstan National Team could make an impression along with new Italian side CPOpartners.com sevens.