Holders Camels to take on Phoenix in opener

CAMELS will begin their title defence at the Second Qatar Sevens League with a match against Phoenix at the Aspire grounds on Friday.

Al Khor, Lions, Stallions, who were previously known as Camels 2, Doha 2s and Pirates (previously College of North Atlantic-Qatar) are the other teams in the fray. 

After a successful first edition, the Qatar Rugby Federation (QRF) expects the tournament to be a major hit with fans. 

“The first edition had helped boost the sport’s profile. The quality was high and enthusiasm encouraging. We hope to see a similar tournament this time,” QRF President Yousef Jeham Al Kuwari told Doha Stadium Plus. “The competition will encourage the clubs to engage new players, supporters, volunteers and sponsors.”

QRF General Secretary Ali Al Malki said, “The league will make the sport more popular. Despite budget constraints, we’re confident of successfully organising it”.

Several local as well as overseas players from Fiji represented various teams in the last edition, with IlIese Rakabu (Camels1), Talal Mujalli (Camels 2), Jean Barat (Blue Falcons), Syed Asad Ali (CNAQ) and Moses Dorairajah (Lions) being some of the big names.

Al Kuwari thanked the Aspire Zone for its support. 

“Aspire supports the sport by providing the ground. I also thank the Qatar Olympic Committee for its firm belief that rugby can become a top-notch sport in the country,” he added.

Rakabu expressed satisfaction and hailed the QRF’s initiative. 

“We enjoy rugby. The federation has been very supportive. We look forward to a great tournament,” said the Fijian, who led Camels 1 last season. 

Meanwhile, a 15s Level 1 coaching course was conducted by Asia Rugby educators at the Aspire warm-up grounds last week. The course was a part of QRF’s plans to make the game popular.

“It’s our endeavour to develop the sport in the region. Rugby has the potential to become a top fan-based sport,” said Al Kuwari.