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The draw for the next round of the IRB Sevens World Series in Wellington has been made, with 16 teams heading to the Westpac Stadium on 5-6 February 2010.

With the seeding based on the two previous legs of the Series, hosts New Zealand line up as the number one ranked side following their wins in Dubai and George.

The Series leaders face a tough examination in Pool A, lining up with South Africa, Wales, and Niue. Wales famously beat the Kiwis on their home patch at last season and Paul John’s outfit head Down Under with some confidence after taking the Bowl in Dubai and George bowl winners. Paul Treu’s Boks need to get their World Series defence back on track after two Cup Quarter-Final exits has left them languishing down in 8th position overall.

Wellington holders England return to the scene of last year’s golden try triumph and face Kenya, USA, and Tonga. The English last met Kenya in the pool stages in Dubai where they beat the Africans 27-10.

George runners-up Fiji will meet Australia, Scotland, and Papa New Guinea. Under the stewardship of the great Waisale Serevi, Papua New Guinea will return to the world stage after missing the 2009 tournament. The islanders qualified for the NZI Sevens by claiming a surprising third at the Oceania Sevens in November.

Nicolas Fernandez Lobbe's Argentina are another team heading to the ‘Cake Tin’ with confidence but will have to tackle Dubai finalists Samoan, who themselves wait on the fitness of skipper Lolo Lui. They will be joined by Canada, making their first appearance of the year, and France.

“Worldwide interest in the game of sevens is continuing to grow and the NZI Sevens is a vital part of the worldwide festival that the game of rugby sevens has become,” said NZI Sevens General Manager, Steve Walters.

 “This year’s draw looks to offer many great clashes, and the standard of rugby is always extremely high in Wellington. 2009 saw many upsets and everyone will remember the last minute win by England. Fans can expect that the 2010 tournament will deliver even more excitement and competition.”

UR7s - 'Best of Dubai/George VII'

Wellington Pools:

Pool A
New Zealand
South Africa
Wales
Niue

Pool B
Fiji
Australia
Scotland
Papua New Guinea

Pool C
England
Kenya
USA
Tonga

Pool D
Samoa
Argentina
France
Canada