World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year Tristan Leyds hopes to put in a massive performance for the Blitzboks and help them defend their Cape Town title in December.
The speedster was a guest on the Smile 90.4FM’s Ryan O’Connor Breakfast Show, where he discussed the upcoming SVNS Series, the importance of the Cape Town tournament and the standards within the Springbok Sevens set-up.
The Blitzboks will arrive as back-to-back world champions after winning five of nine tournaments last season, including the Cape Town leg for the second successive year.
Philip Snyman’s men begin their title defence in Dubai on 28 and 29 November before returning home to compete at Cape Town Stadium from 5-6 December.
ICYMI: Blitzboks snap up former Sharks flyer
“I’ve been lucky enough to be on both sides, so I’ve been watching the sevens for a while as well,” Leyds said.
“This year it’s even bigger; the 10th year anniversary of Cape Town. Hopefully we can get another one in the bag.”
Leyds scored 16 tries and contributed 22 conversions in 2025-26. He also joined teammate Shilton van Wyk in the SVNS Dream Team of the Year.
The 29-year-old says preparations are progressing well ahead of the opening tournament.
“We’re going good at the moment. We had some warm-up games against Germany the past two weeks. So a couple of days off and then we’re ready for Dubai camp.”
DAVIDS: Target on Blitzboks’ backs
There have also been new faces in the Blitzboks set-up, with former Sharks winger Marnus Potgieter joining the squad and featured in the recent warm-up matches.
Leyds highlighted the enduring values that shape the group, describing how each incoming player inherits both an expectation and an opportunity to contribute to it.
“It’s just a culture being passed on from the previous generations,” the ex-Stormers flyer added. “There’s a standard that has to be upheld.
“And as a new player coming in, you’re chasing those standards and trying to perfect your game as well.”
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
The post Leyds looks to bag another big one appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year Tristan Leyds hopes to put in a massive performance for the Blitzboks and help them defend their Cape Town title in December.
The post Leyds looks to bag another big one appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
