Sevens World Series

Tonga, Cook Islands launch Sevens World Series bids

In pool play, Tonga take on Zimbabwe and the Philippines today and Hong Kong tomorrow.

Tonga ended a five-year absence from the World Series by competing at the Hamilton and Sydney tournaments earlier this year.

The winner of the 12 team Hong Kong qualifier is given a place on 10 leg series, and Tonga manager Richard Weightman said the Kingdom could be competitive on the global tour.

"If you do get a core spot you know that you've got a good period of time to prepare before you actually embark on the first one, which is in Dubai," Weightman said.