The South Africans are coached by former Blitzboks Sandile Ngcobo and Philip Snyman, while SA Rugby Sevens Academy Manager Marius Schoeman will also attend the tournament, where South Africa are defending champions. Germany and Botswana are the other international sides in action.

Ngcobo said the need to do the basics well will be paramount, while he is also keen to see how the players respond under pressure.

“We did not have much time together as a team, so we need to make sure the basics are well executed,” Ngcobo said.

“We picked the squad accordingly, with players who know each other and have played together in the past being named.

“We are hoping to be tested in all areas of play and it will be interesting to see how the players respond when under pressure. It is our first tournament together, so if the guys do the basics well, we can settle down and improve from there.”

The SA U18 Sevens squad:

1. Bjorn van Wyk (Affies, Blue Bulls)

2. Tiaan Fourie (Grey College, Free State)

3. Gert Steyn (Grey College, Free State)

4. Siviwe Zondani (Grey High School, Eastern Province)

5. Melbert van der Spuy (Monument, Golden Lions)

6. Latica Nela (Michaelhouse, KZN)

7. Connor du Bruyn (Kearsney College, KZN)

8. Jade Coeries (Outeniqua, SWD)

9. Keno Alexander (Welkom Gymnasium, Griffons)

10. Jared Africa (Paul Roos Gymnasium, Western Province)

11. Caston Michaels (Outeniqua, SWD)

12. Jordan Venter (Paul Roos Gymnasium, Western Province)