The HSBC SVNS Series is set to return, and the buzz is on about which stars will shine. While many rising talents come from sevens pathways, international XVs rugby offers a fertile ground for exciting players to excel in the rapid-fire SVNS format. Here's a look at eight stars of the XVs game who could light up the SVNS Series, along with some who should return.
Max Jorgensen - Australia
Jorgensen is a breakout star, rising rapidly as a dangerous finisher. His iconic try after the siren against England at Twickenham in 2024 signaled his arrival. Strong form for the NSW Waratahs and tries against the British & Irish Lions, South Africa, and France further solidify his skills. Jorgensen's performance has kept SVNS Series title winner Corey Toole out of the Wallabies, suggesting he has the potential to elevate the team to new heights.
Henry Pollock - England
Pollock is known for his showmanship and match-winning cameos off the bench for England. His form for Northampton screams effort, earning him the 2025 Premiership Breakthrough Player of the Season Award. Pollock's ability to get tongues talking makes him a brutal carrier in the sevens format, capable of engaging the crowd. Despite his polarizing nature, Pollock's show-stopping moments will undoubtedly spark conversations.
Antoine Dupont - France
Dupont, an Olympic gold medalist, has only played one year in the sevens format, but his impact was significant. His presence brought out the best in his French teammates. With a gold medal to defend, the 2026-27 SVNS series seems like the perfect time for Dupont to return, especially given his 64 caps as a scrum half.
Canan Moodie - South Africa
Moodie, a World Cup winner and 22-capped Springbok, has become one of South Africa's most dangerous finishers since his 2022 debut, scoring nine tries. His sheer size and speed make him an ideal weapon for the Blitzboks, especially with more space. Moodie's potential in the sevens format is undeniable.
Renee Holmes - New Zealand
Holmes, a World Cup winner, capped 30 times, and renowned as one of the world's most dangerous fullbacks and finishers, has surprisingly not played in the sevens format. Her 2025 Rugby World Cup performance, finishing with 64 points, is a testament to her skills. All signs point to her transitioning to the Black Ferns 7s, as she was named in their development squad for the Coral Coast 7s in January.
Desiree Miller - Australia
Miller, a long-time Wallaroo and NSW Waratah running mate, is a top point scorer for both her 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 is evident, and her presence would be a valuable addition.
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 potential. Her inclusion in the SVNS series feels like a 'when' rather than an 'if' scenario.
Morgane Bourgeois - France
Bourgeois, an 18-capped international, has been a regular for France and Stade Bordelais, winning two titles in 2023 and 2024. Her 137 points in her short international career and top-tier performance at the 2025 Rugby World Cup make her an eclectic weapon for Les Bleus. With her quality kicking boot, Bourgeois could be a game-changer in the SVNS series.
In conclusion, these players from the XVs game have the skills and potential to excel in the SVNS Series. Their inclusion would bring a unique dynamic to the circuit, adding excitement and showcasing the versatility of rugby talent.
