The roster of thirteen players for the Canadian Men’s Sevens team, competing in the upcoming HSBC SVNS 3 tournament in Dubai this weekend, has been revealed.
Christiaan Esterhuizen, serving as the interim head coach, incorporated seven individuals who previously secured the team’s spot in the competition through their strong performance at the Rugby Americas North 7s event.
Lockie Kratz is once more leading the team as captain, with Ethan Turner, Elias Hancock, Thomas Isherwood, Johnny Franklin, Adam Doane, and Ian Jones also returning to the lineup.
Josiah Morra rejoins the team, marking his initial appearance for the Canada Men’s Seven since the year 2024. Morra has previously played for the New England Free Jacks in Major League Rugby and contributed to the Canadian Men’s team’s qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Canada has been allocated to Pool B, where their adversaries will be Madagascar, Belgium, and Italy.
The leading two teams from both the men’s and women’s divisions in HSBC SVNS 3 will automatically advance to HSBC SVNS 2, scheduled to occur from February to March across Nairobi, Montevideo, and São Paulo.
Achieving a top-four position following these three stages offers teams an opportunity to participate in the HSBC SVNS World Championships and compete for HSBC SVNS Series qualification.
Christiaan Esterhuizen, the interim head coach, stated: “Our training camp proved extremely fruitful. Even with a limited preparation period and tough circumstances before camp, such as snow and adverse weather, the squad displayed impressive dedication and tenacity consistently.
“We have brought back multiple athletes who were not part of the RAN event — specifically Kal Sager, Morgan Di Nardo, Jack Shaw, Josiah Morra, and Brenden Black — which brings significant experience and increases the team’s depth.
“Furthermore, it’s thrilling to witness Takoda McMullin making his first appearance, with Lockie Kratz assuming the role of captain for the team.
“A robust core of players from RAN is maintained — comprising Ethan Turner, Elias Hancock, Thomas Isherwood, Lockie Kratz, Johnny Franklin, Adam Doane, and Ian Jones — ensuring crucial consistency.
“As we prepare for Dubai, we anticipate tough competition from skilled opponents like Italy, Belgium, and potentially Tonga and Samoa. This squad is seasoned, brimming with self-assurance, and prepared to play with vigor and determination.”
Canadian Men’s Sevens Roster for SVNS 3
Adam Doane
Brenden Black
Elias Hancock
Ethan Turner
Ian Jones
Jack Shaw
Johnny Franklin
Josiah Morra
Kal Sager
Lockie Kratz
Morgan Di Nardo
Takoda McMullin
Thomas Isherwood
