The Jordan Rugby Men’s Sevens National Team has arrived in Kathmandu, Nepal, ahead of their participation in the Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy, which takes place on Friday, 4th October, and Saturday, 5th October 2024. This prestigious tournament will feature 14 teams from across Asia, competing for a spot in the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series 2025.
This participation is a key part of Jordan Rugby’s ongoing international development strategy. Since launching the Men’s Sevens program in 2022, Jordan Rugby has steadily built a strong foundation with the support of Royal Jordanian, Isuzu Jordan and the Jordan Olympic Committee. These strategic partnerships have been crucial in helping the team to compete on a larger stage, grow stronger, and gain valuable international experience.
Aziz Zakaria, Secretary General of Jordan Rugby, emphasized the importance of this milestone:
“Our journey to building a winning team is steadily progressing, despite the various challenges we face, including the lack of a dedicated rugby grass pitch. The resilience and commitment of our players have been remarkable. Each tournament and camp has pushed us further, and the growth in their skills and discipline is evident. This team has shown that no obstacle can stop their drive to succeed. Our aim is to lift the Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy by 2027, and this tournament is a key step in that journey.”
Koki Hamouqa, Director of Rugby and Performance, highlighted the team’s preparation and aspirations:
“This year we’ve had an intense preparation period, starting with the London International Rugby Sevens and continuing with intense training camps in Wadi Rum and Aqaba. These camps have helped us refine our playing style and solidify our team’s unity. Our goal is clear, and with the group of players we’ve developed over the last three years, we believe we’re ready to make a strong impact.”
Squad List:
- Ismaile Janbek (Captain)
- Rakan Abzakh (Vice-Captain)
- Zewar Hatuqai (Vice-Vice Captain)
- Omar Hajaby
- Abdalla Naghaway
- Izzat Yaseen
- Ahmad Thaqakhua
- Zaid Hatuqai
- Mohammad Zaqsaw
- Zaid Kilani
- Ali Taha Brown
- Hamzeh Leddawi
Staff:
- Koki Hamouqa (Head Coach)
- Hothaifa Lafi (Team Medic)
- Amjad Dweik (Team Manager)
- Aziz Zakaria (Union Representative)
Group Stage and Match Schedule:
Jordan is in Pool A, alongside Philippines, a strong competitor recently relegated from the Asia Rugby Tier 1 Series, and Pakistan. The teams will play in a round-robin format, with the top two advancing to the quarterfinals.
- Jordan’s first match is against Pakistan on 4th October at 8:30 AM Nepal time (5:45 AM Jordan time).
- The second match is against Philippines at 12:54 PM Nepal time (10:09 AM Jordan time).
Live Streaming:
Fans can catch all the action live on the Asia Rugby YouTube channel through the following links:
- Day 1: Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy 2024 Nepal 7s – Day 1
- Day 2: Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy 2024 Nepal 7s – Day 2
This tournament is part of a broader strategy to position Jordan Rugby as a competitive force on the international stage, made possible through collaboration with Isuzu Jordan and Royal Jordanian. Their continued support enables the team to access crucial international competitions and elevate the profile of Jordan Rugby globally.