Tweet
Russia are the growing power of European rugby, both at sevens and XVs - though as they have been playing international rugby since 1990 (ie. as long as New Zealand) it could be said that they have had plenty of time to grow! Third in the European qualifier, beating France and Spain on the way, they could have been a surprise package in this tournament if they had had a kinder draw. However, one matter of particular interest is the inclusion of two international track athletes in their squad - Alexandra Kerzhentseva and Natalia Selyutina. Kerzhentseva is a 100m and 200m sprinter, while Selyutina has represented Russia in the 200m and 400m. Both have little or no rugby experience, having been drafted straight from the track.
Justine Bayigga is Uganda’s 100 metres, 200 metres and 400 metres champion and represented her country at the Beijing Olympics last year. She is new to rugby, having first picked up a rugby ball in October, but her speed will mean that she is one to watch on the wing.
Justine Bayigga is Uganda’s 100 metres, 200 metres and 400 metres champion and represented her country at the Beijing Olympics last year. She is new to rugby, having first picked up a rugby ball in October, but her speed will mean that she is one to watch on the wing.