Blitzboks Claim Hong Kong 7s Title with Victory Over Fiji | Rugby News
- Perth, Australia – February 8, 2026 – The South African Blitzboks secured victory at the HSBC SVNS Perth tournament on Sunday, defeating Fiji 21-19 in a thrilling final.
- The final was a back-and-forth affair, with Fiji taking an early lead before the Blitzboks fought back.
- The Blitzboks entered the final after a dominant 28-12 semi-final victory over Australia.
Blitzboks Claim Perth Sevens Title, Halt Fiji’s Momentum
Perth, Australia – – The South African Blitzboks secured victory at the HSBC SVNS Perth tournament on Sunday, defeating Fiji 21-19 in a thrilling final. The win marks the Blitzboks’ second series title this season, following their triumph in Cape Town in December, and significantly tightens the race for the overall World Sevens Series championship.
The final was a back-and-forth affair, with Fiji taking an early lead before the Blitzboks fought back. Ryan Oosthuizen proved to be the hero for South Africa, scoring two crucial tries, including a stunning run that left four Fijian defenders in his wake. Ricardo Duarttee’s accurate kicking proved pivotal, converting all three of South Africa’s tries to secure the win.
The Blitzboks entered the final after a dominant 28-12 semi-final victory over Australia. Shilton van Wyk opened the scoring for South Africa with a well-executed try, and Sebastiaan Jobb added two more, showcasing his blistering pace. Duarttee’s consistent kicking ensured the Blitzboks maintained control throughout the match.
The semi-final saw the Blitzboks capitalize on Australian errors, turning defensive pressure into scoring opportunities. A key moment came when Jobb intercepted a pass and sprinted 80 meters to score, extending South Africa’s lead. Despite a spirited fightback from Australia, the Blitzboks’ superior discipline and finishing proved decisive.
In the final against Fiji, the Blitzboks found themselves trailing early, with Fiji demonstrating the form that saw them win in Singapore last weekend and dominate pool play on Saturday. However, South Africa’s relentless tackling and opportunistic attack allowed them to regain the lead. Oosthuizen’s second try, coupled with Duarttee’s conversion, proved to be the game-winning score.
“We knew it would be a tough game against Fiji,” said Oosthuizen, who was named Player of the Final. “They are a world-class team, and we had to be at our best to win. I’m proud of the boys for the effort they put in.”
The victory cuts Fiji’s lead in the World Sevens Series standings to just four points. Fiji now has 70 points, while South Africa is close behind with 66. New Zealand remains in contention, trailing with 62 points.
Match Details:
Semi-Final: South Africa 28 (14), Australia 12 (5)
SA – Tries: Shilton van Wyk, Sebastiaan Jobb (2), Ricardo Duarttee. Conversions: Ricardo Duarttee (4).
Australia – Tries: Henry Hutchison, Ben Dowling. Conversion: Ben Dowling.
Final: South Africa 21 (14), Fiji 19 (12)
SA – Tries: Ryan Oosthuizen (2), Sebastiaan Jobb. Conversions: Ricardo Duarttee (3).
Fiji – Tries: Viwa Naduvalo, Jeremaia Matana, Terio Veilawa. Conversions: Terio Veilawa, Iowane Teba.
The Blitzboks’ performance in Perth demonstrates their growing strength and consistency. Their ability to overcome a strong Fijian side will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they look ahead to the remaining legs of the World Sevens Series. The competition is heating up, and the race for the overall title promises to be a thrilling one.
Sebastiaan Jobb had a particularly strong showing throughout the tournament, scoring multiple tries and consistently making impactful plays. His speed and agility proved to be a constant threat to opposing defenses.
The HSBC SVNS Series will continue with the Singapore leg on and .