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The Malaysian Sevens team have arrived in Kota Kinabalu ahead of this weekend’s Borneo Sevens, realistic on the areas they need to improve on.

The side went unbeaten at last weekend’s Brunei Sevens, part of the IRB Asian Sevens Series, but face a much sterner test at their home tournament, with the return of some of Asia's rugby powerhouses for the third leg of the Series. Korea won the first leg at the Shanghai Sevens last month.

"We want to take these few days to improve what we can before the championship this weekend. One of the areas which I will focus on with the players is improving our support play," said coach, Jude Rampangajouw.

As well as the IRB Asian Rugby Sevens Series, a women’s tournament and an International Club Sevens will also be running.

"It's going to be tough against the 'big boys' such as Japan, Korea, China and Hong Kong but we hope to do well. The tournament in Brunei gave us a good build up for this weekend's championship. I think with a bit of luck we might be able to create some upsets," added Rampangajouw.

Malaysia beat Philippines 28-7 in the final last weekend and had earlier dispatched Brunei (42-0) in the semi-final.
Meanwhile, when commenting on the success of the Malaysian Team's campaign in Brunei, Team Manager, Dr KH Tan said, "It was fantastic, the boys did very well throughout the tournament".

"The victory was just what we needed to provide us the boost for this weekend's tournament, although it will be a lot tougher going against the Asian giants."

Strong turnout for Sri Lanka Sevens

Japan, Korea, Kazakhstan, China, Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, Thailand, and host nation Sri Lanka have confirmed their participation for the final leg of the Asian Sevens Series, the Carlton-Sri Lanka Sevens (Nov 28-29).

Hong Kong and the Arabian Gulf have pulled out of the event though with a clash of schedules. Hong Kong will be preparing for the East Asian Rugby Tournament (5-6 Dec), whilst the Arabian Gulf side are participating in the Dubai Rugby Sevens (3-5 Dec).

A schools tournament will be played out concurrently at the Sugathadasa Stadium including Royal, Isipatana, Trinity, St. Anthony’s, St. Peter’s St. Joseph’s and Wesley.