Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, May 6, 2024
In a heart stopping showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, New Zealand emerged victorious over Australia in a nail biting clash to secure the SVNS League Winners 2024 title and make history as the inaugural women’s HSBC SVNS Singapore champions.
The stage was set for an epic showdown as the two powerhouses, locked in a fierce battle throughout the season, went head to head in the final game with both teams tied at 106 points each at the top of the standings.
Unstoppable team
In a thrilling conclusion to the tightest women’s series in history, it all came down to the very last game, contested by the two sides locked on 106 points each at the top of the standings.
Despite a valiant effort from a depleted Australian side, it was the ferocious performance of the Black Ferns Sevens that ultimately sealed the deal.
Led by the unstoppable Michaela Blyde, who delivered a sensational hattrick, New Zealand claimed their fourth successive tournament gold, solidifying their position at the summit of the regular season standings.
In a match filled with tension and drama, New Zealand surged ahead early on, with Ms Blyde showcasing her exceptional speed to secure the first score. However, Australia swiftly retaliated, with Maddison Levi matching Ms Blyde’s feat to level the scores.
Despite Australia’s brief lead, New Zealand’s relentless determination, highlighted by Ms Blyde’s hattrick heroics, propelled them to a well deserved victory.
Double title
New Zealand came out as the victors, crowned SVNS League Winners 2024 and the first ever women’s HSBC SVNS Singapore champions.
The triumph of the Black Ferns Sevens not only signifies their dominance in the SVNS League but also underscores the remarkable growth of women’s rugby in New Zealand. With a rich tradition of excellence in rugby, the success of the Black Ferns Sevens serves as a testament to the dedication and talent of female athletes in the country. Their relentless pursuit of excellence has not only elevated the sport but has also inspired a new generation of aspiring rugby players, both domestically and internationally. As pioneers in the women’s game, the Black Ferns Sevens continue to break barriers and pave the way for greater opportunities and recognition for women in rugby, solidifying their status as true trailblazers in the sport.
Electrifying Season
The final showdown not only decided the league winner but also confirmed the standings for the season. France secured the bronze medal in Singapore, outshining Fiji in a commanding performance. Meanwhile, Great Britain secured eighth place, setting the stage for a thrilling Grand Final in Madrid, with Brazil, Japan, South Africa, and Spain poised to compete in the promotion relegation tournament.
The semi final clashes were equally electrifying, with New Zealand asserting their dominance over Fiji in a commanding performance, while Australia clinched a hard fought victory over France, setting the stage for an epic showdown in the final.
With their victory in the bronze final, France showcased their prowess and secured their spot in the Grand Final in Madrid, solidifying their standing as one of the top contenders in the league.
As the dust settles on an exhilarating season, New Zealand basks in the glory of their double title triumph, reaffirming their dominance in the world of women’s SVNS rugby. With their eyes set on future victories, both New Zealand and Australia leave an indelible mark on the SVNS League, setting the stage for more thrilling encounters in the seasons to come.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
