Seven players to watch in Paris

Ahead of the ninth round of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, we take a look at some of the players that look set to shine in Paris.

Fri 12 May, 2017

· 2 min read

Perry Baker (USA)

It's not the first time you've seen his name here and it won't be the last. Perry Baker can score from anywhere. His electrifying pace and outrageously quick feet will prove difficult for any team to defend against. Sitting third in the DHL Series Performance Tracker he's in hot pursuit of top spot and will be hoping to help the United States to glory in Paris this weekend.

00:54 mins

RE:LIVE: Baker cooks up a storm in Singapore

USA's Perry Baker scores from his own line in Singapore

Julien Candelon (France)

For the final time, Julien Candelon will line out for his team in Paris, the city where his sevens career began. The veteran has had an illustrious sevens career, having played 197 times on the series with a return of 112 tries and a total of 590 points. However, don't be surprised if you see him adding to those stats this weekend with one last hurrah.

00:46 mins

Try, Julien Candelon, Scotland v FRANCE

Adam Zaruba (Canada)

Returning to the squad after missing the Hong Kong and Singapore rounds, Adam Zaruba will bolster Canada's attack with buckets for hands and 120kg of power. He has the ability to pull off spectacular plays like this beauty in Paris last year.

00:45 mins

Try, Adam Zaruba, Wales v CANADA

Sam Cross (Wales)

After setting records in the DHL Impact Player stats in round eight, Sam Cross will be looking to extend his lead over Dan Norton in the DHL Series Performance Tracker. He left Singapore with some incredible stats, including 32 carries and 17 offloads. The Wales captain is a machine and is sure to bring lots of energy to the field this weekend.

Virimi Vakatawa (France)

Returning to the sevens fold after playing part in France's Six Nations this year, is powerhouse Virimi Vakatawa. The French bulldozer hasn't been seen on the sevens stage since the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, the climax to a season where he became a fan favourite. With France missing some key players expect Vakatawa to take centre stage and put on a show for the home fans.

Rosko Specman (South Africa)

South Africa will be delighted to have this man back in their squad for Paris. Having missed the last two rounds through injury, Specman will be looking to help the Blitzboks to not only a tournament win but also end their long wait for a second series title. Keep an eye out for Specman as he could light up the Stade Jean Bouin this weekend.

00:45 mins

Try, R Speckman, France v SOUTH AFRICA

Who do you think will shine at the HSBC Paris Sevens? Join the conversation @WorldRugby7s using #Paris7s