Shiel named in Scotland 7s squad for Vegas tournament

• 26 Feb 2019

Scrum-half Charlie Shiel has been named in the Scotland 7s squad for this weekend's HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series tournament in Las Vegas.

The 21-year old made his Scotland 7s debut in Paris at the end of last season, whilst Shiel has so far made two apperances for the capital side this season – in last month’s bonus win over Southern Kings and in Saturday’s encounter against Cardiff Blues.

Scotland were struck by injuries during their last outing in Sydney and are boosted by the return to fitness of Glenn Bryce, Harvey Elms, Jamie Farndale, Nyle Godsmark and Robbie Fergusson.

Jack Cuthbert has also recovered from a hand injury to be involved in a travelling party for the first time this season.

Scotland have been drawn against Fiji, Australia and Wales in the Pool stages of the Las Vegas tournament.

Edinburgh’s Mungo Mason and Ally Miller have not been considered for selection and will remain with their professional club

Scotland 7s Head Coach John Dalziel said: “Training has gone well and with such a short turnaround from Hamilton and Sydney our key priority has been getting the squad recovered and back to full fitness. The medics and support staff have done a great job to get everyone back and available in such a short period of time.

“We have also been able to provide key cover to the pro teams during this time with Kyle Steyn and Robbie Fergusson in training with Glasgow Warriors and Ally Miller and Mungo Mason in with Edinburgh.

“Robbie, our co-captain, has re-joined the squad here in Vegas which is a huge boost. Kyle and Ally have made a great impact with both Glasgow and Edinburgh respectively which is great for the guys and also for the 7s programme.

“On the other side it’s great to have Charlie Shiel come in from Edinburgh to gain exposure and continue his long-term development. He is a great kid and an exciting up and coming talent who will really benefit from exposure at this level.

“We are thankful for the continued support of both Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby.

“Looking ahead to the tournament we have a bit of a mountain to climb with Fiji and Australia up first and then Wales to finish off a really tough group. However, the players have responded to the challenge and know it’s about getting our game back to the performance levels we saw in Hamilton.”