Springbok Sevens playmaker Selvyn Davids returns for the SVNS stop at BC Place this weekend, determined to help the Blitzboks close the gap on series leaders Fiji.
A few seasons ago, Davids dazzled the Vancouver crowd with remarkable soccer skills to set up a memorable try. Now, as the fifth tournament of the 2026 series kicks off on Saturday, the 31-year-old is back for more.
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Davids missed the last two events in Singapore and Perth after picking up an injury in Cape Town, where the Blitzboks went back-to-back in front of their home supporters. Having played a key role in that triumph, he could only watch from afar as the team stumbled in Singapore before bouncing back in style to win in Perth.
“That was very frustrating, I am not going to lie,” said Davids on Wednesday.
“To not be with the guys is not a great feeling as there is nothing you can do sitting at home, stressing about something you have no control over. You want to be part of the team all the time and when you are not there to help, it is not the greatest feeling on earth.”
There was a silver lining.
“My legs are getting old now,” he joked, “so any rest is good for them. On a serious note, I do feel refreshed and ready to go.”
Despite being recognised as one of the world’s leading sevens players and earning multiple post-season Dream Team selections, Davids insists nothing is handed to anyone in this squad.
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“The guys really make sure you are at your best,” he said.
“There are good competition and depth amongst the group and that pushes everyone to become better. Being in the squad to travel is also no guarantee that you will stay there, so all of us will be ready to deliver on the weekend.
“Consistency was one area of improvement we worked on and that will be a clear focus for us this weekend. We need to start well and keep that standard.”
South Africa head to Vancouver second on the standings with 66 points, four behind Fiji on 70. New Zealand (62), France (54) and Australia (54) round out the top five.
Photo: David Van Der Sandt/Gallo Images
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