The HSBC SVNS Series is set to return, and the buzz is on about which stars will shine. While many rising talents emerge from the sevens pathways, the international XVs rugby scene offers a treasure trove of potential. The Nations Championship and Nations Cup showcased how sevens players thrive, but it also revealed that several XVs stars could excel in the rapid-fire sevens format.
Here's a look at eight XVs stars who could light up the SVNS Series, along with some who should return:
Max Jorgensen - Australia
Jorgensen is a rising star, known for his dangerous finishing skills. His iconic try after the siren against England at Twickenham in 2024 signaled his arrival. Strong performances for the NSW Waratahs and tries against the British & Irish Lions, South Africa, and France further solidify his talent. Jorgensen's impact on the Wallabies suggests he has the skills to elevate the team to new heights.
Henry Pollock - England
Pollock is a showman with match-winning cameos off the bench for England. His effort and winning the 2025 Premiership Breakthrough Player of the Season Award showcase his dedication. Pollock's ability to entertain and engage crowds would make him a brutal carrier in the sevens format, adding a show-stopping element to the game.
Antoine Dupont - France
Dupont, an Olympic gold medalist, has only played one year of sevens, but his impact was significant. His presence brought out the best in his French teammates. With a gold medal to defend, Dupont's return to the SVNS Series in 2026-27 seems inevitable, making it a perfect time for another stellar performance.
Canan Moodie - South Africa
Moodie, a World Cup winner and Springbok, has become one of South Africa's most dangerous finishers since his 2022 debut, scoring nine tries. His size and speed make him an ideal weapon for the Blitzboks. With his talent and potential, Moodie could be a game-changer in the sevens format.
Renee Holmes - New Zealand
Holmes, a World Cup winner and 30-cap New Zealand player, is renowned for her finishing skills. Her 64 points at the 2025 Rugby World Cup make her a top scorer. All signs point to her transitioning to the Black Ferns 7s, as she was named in their development squad for the Coral Coast 7s.
Desiree Miller - Australia
Miller, a long-time Wallaroo and NSW Waratah player, is one of the highest point-scorers for both provincial and international sides. Her speed, versatility, and developing kicking ability make her an ideal candidate for the Aussie 7s program. Miller's interest in the shorter format further solidifies her potential.
Josivini Neihamu - Fiji
Neihamu is a rising star in women's rugby, nominated for the World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year award in 2025. Her dominance in the centres during the 2026 Super Rugby Women’s season showcases her talent. Her inclusion in the sevens circuit feels inevitable, given her early success in both formats.
Morgane Bourgeois - France
Bourgeois, an 18-capped international, has been a regular for France and Stade Bordelais, winning two titles. Her 137 points in her short international career and top-tier performance at the 2025 Rugby World Cup make her a quality kicker. Bourgeois' versatility and skill set her up as an eclectic weapon for the French team in the sevens format.
These players, with their talent, versatility, and potential, could light up the SVNS Series. Their inclusion would bring excitement and showcase the crossover potential between XVs and sevens rugby.
