Women's 7s international tour: announcement imminent?

"The result of discussions between various countries, to increase and improve the competition between Selections Women, the International Rugby Board (IRB) announced the creation of the IRB Women's International Sevens Tournament to be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from 1 to 3 December next."

Or so said the Brazilian RFU today.... but as yet nothing from the IRB.

Quite what is behind the IRB's reticence can only be guessed at, though if the Brazilian press release is accurate then it is possible that they are hunkering down to avoid a heap of irate complaints from much of the sevens world. Why? Because the release implies that the opening tournament (and maybe the whole tour) will be restricted to eight teams - New Zealand, Australia, England, South Africa, United States, China, Canada and Brazil.

No Spain (European finalists). No Netherlands (the world's only professional team). No France or Russia (either of who could finish in the top six, if not top four, if allowed to join in). No Japan or Hong Kong or Kazakhstan (all quite capable or beating China on current form). East Africa frozen out again, along with the Caribbean and Pacific. All missed out in place of several nations who rarely play outside their own region, if they ever play at all.

We can only hope that the release is incomplete, or the translation misleading. Otherwise what should be a great announcement for international women's rugby could be its worst kick in the teeth for years.