Maddison Levi Eyes Bordeaux Finale Despite Knee Scare as Aussies Aim for World Series Glory
Australian rugby sevens sensation Maddison Levi is pushing hard to recover from a knee injury, remaining with the national squad in Europe as they prepare for the final leg of the World Rugby Sevens Series in Bordeaux. The star try-scorer, a dominant force throughout the season, is determined to be on the field as the Aussies look to secure their first world championship title since 2022.
Levi’s presence in the squad, even while managing her injury, underscores the team’s ambition and her own dedication. She was a crucial part of the team’s recent stunning victory in Spain, a performance that saw them leapfrog arch-rivals New Zealand by two points in the standings. The Aussies famously upset the Kiwis in the semi-finals of that tournament, a significant psychological boost heading into the French finale.
Despite being sidelined with a knee brace after sustaining an injury in the opening game of the Spanish leg, Levi was an infectious presence on the sidelines. She was seen celebrating enthusiastically with her teammates after both the semi-final and final victories, her joy palpable even from the sidelines. The celebrations were doubled with the men’s team also clinching gold on the same day, creating a potent atmosphere of success for Australian rugby sevens.
A Rugby Australia spokesperson confirmed that Levi has remained with the team in their European camp. She is undergoing intensive rehabilitation and will be given every opportunity to prove her fitness for the crucial Bordeaux tournament, which kicks off on Friday. With a competition-best 62 tries this season, her potential absence would be a significant blow, but the team is clearly hopeful for her return.
The Australian women’s team, Olympic champions from 2016, have shown remarkable resilience and improvement. They had previously endured a five-game losing streak in finals against New Zealand but have now turned the tables, putting them in a commanding position to claim their fourth World Series title. A victory in Bordeaux would cement their status as the best in the world this season.
Men’s Side Rejuvenated and on the Rise
The resurgence isn’t limited to the women’s team. The Australian men’s sevens squad also experienced a significant triumph in Spain, winning their first leg title since November 2022. This victory was particularly crucial as the team had entered the Spanish tournament facing the real possibility of dropping out of the top eight, a position that would have jeopardised their qualification for next year’s World Series.
Their win has propelled them up the standings. They now sit comfortably in third place, trailing leaders South Africa by eight points and second-placed Argentina by just four. This dramatic turnaround signifies a renewed confidence and a strong upward trajectory for the men’s program.
Key figures have been instrumental in this revival. Australian captain Henry Hutchison, who was deservedly named player of the final in Spain, has also been recognised for his outstanding individual performances by being shortlisted for the player of the year award. His leadership and on-field brilliance have been a driving force for the team.
Further bolstering the men’s side is the emergence of Harry Wilson, son of former Wallabies captain David Wilson. The former Waratahs talent has been nominated for rookie of the year, highlighting his impressive impact in his debut season. His dynamic play has added a new dimension to the team’s attack.
Reflecting on the team’s current standing, a proud Hutchison commented on the positive trajectory of the squad. “I feel like the group is in a really good place,” he stated. “We know we’re not consistently the best in the world but we’re knocking on the door. There’s been a huge amount of growth from last season to this season.” This sentiment of progress and ambition bodes well for both the men’s and women’s teams as they head into the final showdown in Bordeaux. The French leg promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the World Rugby Sevens Series, with both Australian outfits aiming for ultimate glory.
