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The Akuma Smurfs have revealed a strong welsh contingent for this season’s National Sevens Series which starts next Saturday at RugbyRocks (June 12).

The squad consists of four players from Newport Dragons and five representatives from Cross Keys.

Alex Walker and Lloyd Williams are included with the pair both playing for Wales at the London and Edinburgh legs of the IRB Sevens World Series.

Tom Riley will provide the pace out wide with fellow Newport Dragon Jason Tovey one of Wales’ most highly rated fly-halves a welcome addition. 

Forward Mark Popham is also registered, brother of former Wales international Alix.

Wales’ shock World Cup Sevens win in March 2009 provided the inspiration for player/coach Nathan Williams to start the team.

Highlights from last season included finishing runners-up to a very strong Scorpions side at Church. They were also losing finalists at the Open in Manchester before taking their maiden silverware Newquay. There they beat another National Series side Raging Ronin Bull also in the Open division.

Although the Smurfs have not played the pre-tournaments yet this season, they are expected to feature strongly during the Series such is quality of their squad.