Next Gen 7s is back, kicking off this weekend in Ballina, and the ACT Brumbies are firing, ready for their redemption shot after last year’s narrow miss in the Grand Final.
In just their first year in the series, they fell heartbreakingly short, going down 31–26 to the Reds in a thrilling decider. It was a campaign that proved they belonged on the big stage, but for this squad, falling five points shy still stings. Now, with experience under their belts and a new wave of emerging talent, the Brumbies return hungrier and more determined than ever.
Round 1 will see five debutants pull on the Brumbies jersey, with emerging talents Maronay Smuts, Emma Vandervelde and Rayna Ellis set to make their mark. They’ll be joined by Australian Women’s Sevens representatives Mackenzie Davis and Demi Kennewell, adding class and composure to an already exciting squad.
The side welcomes back some of last year’s sparks, with young gun Georgie Hayes and Aussie Sevens player Ruby Nicholas returning to provide experience and energy. Brumbies Super W Best Back Merania Paraone is also set to feature in a Brumbies Sevens jersey for the first time, adding another dynamic edge to the lineup.
Watch all the games live and free on rugby.com.au, Sunday, 15 February.
11.00am - Brumbies v Reds
12.30pm - Brumbies v Waratahs
3.30pm - Brumbies v Reds
Team list:
- (AU7s) Demi Kennewell*
- (AU7s) Ruby Nicholas
- (AU7s) Mackenzie Davis*
- Georgie Hayes
- Paualee Going
- Bonnie Brewer
- Merania Paraone
- Rayna Ellis*
- Emily Hudson
- Ash Bishop
- Emma Vandervelde*
- Maronay Smuts*
