Blitzboks eye overall title in New York as Visser reaches landmark 50th tournament

On the eve of the HSBC SVNS New York, the Blitzboks find themselves tied at the top of the standings with Fiji. Whoever performs best at the Sports Illustrated Stadium this weekend will claim the overall title.

For Blitzbok captain Impi Visser, this final tournament holds additional significance, as he is set to play in his 50th World Series event—a notable achievement in any player’s career. He will become the 12th Springbok Sevens player to reach this milestone.

"I did not overthink that, to be honest, as there are more important things on this trip, but yes, as it approaches, I do appreciate the occasion with gratitude," said Visser.

"Some great names in our game have achieved this, so to emulate that is special. Also, as you never know what the future holds, I treasure every time I wear the jersey. I hope to still be around for the next Olympic Games, but that is not in my hands."
Visser admits that the drive and execution required to win the inaugural HSBC SVNS New York tournament—and subsequently claim the overall title—are firmly in their control. The Blitzboks previously secured the World Championship in Los Angeles last year and have seen success in decades past in locations such as Las Vegas.

"We wanted to be in this position when we came together as a group and now we are, so the final hurdle is ours to conquer," he said. "In previous tournament cycles, we were poor in the first one and then rebounded in the second, like we did in Cape Town and Perth, so to have won the first one is positive for us."

"It is all about regrouping, refocusing, and getting ready to get the job done. We are in a good space, we trained well, and I think our recovery was good. So now for the final push, but everyone is ready for this, I believe."

Blitzboks’ Pool Schedule in New York
Saturday, 14 March (SA Times):

17:06: vs New Zealand

20:02: vs France

22:58: vs Australia