Four teams sign up for Rugby Sevens

PHUKET TOWN: Rugby teams from England, Malaysia, Taiwan and Thailand have already registered to play in the 2nd Phuket International Rugby Sevens Tournament, and another five countries – Singapore, China, Hong Kong, South Korea and Sri Lanka – are expected to join them. Three more teams – Wales, France and Germany – have yet to respond to invitations, Thai Rugby Union and local government officials heard today when they met to discuss the tournament, which will take place at Saphan Hin on November 25 and 26. During the meeting, Admiral Han Sakulpanich, the chairman of the tournament, said that the Saphan Hin field needs some improvement. Municipality officials promised it would be ready within the next three months. “Phuket will receive a lot of benefits from this. I want the tournament to develop like the World Sevens series in Hong Kong has,” said Adm Han. He added that it was almost decided not to stage this year’s tournament. “Last year we had a lot of problems,” he said, “but we decided to give it another try.” “Unlike last year, when spectators were charged an admission fee, entrance to the tournament will be free this year. Anyone wanting tickets may pick them up from the Phuket Town Municipality office. I will announce a date [when tickets can be picked up],” he added. Phuket Provincial Governor Charnchai Soontharamut will open the tournament on November 25 at 1.30 pm.