Rugby Sevens: Champions New Zealand sign off with Aussie win

Champions New Zealand ended the HSBC Sevens World Series in style by winning their fifth cup in front of a packed Twickenham at a tournament that won many admirers.

Saturday’s attendance of 75,000 was a world record for sevens rugby. New Zealand had to do it the hard way yesterday, coming from 21-0 down to defeat Australia 52-33 in the final.

The All Blacks had already secured the overall title ahead of South Africa before they arrived in London. But they showed they were still hungry for more success after Australia raced into the lead with tries from Tom Lucas, Afa Pakalani and Con Foley. But back came New Zealand through Tom Lucas, Scott Curry, Gillies Kaka, Ben Lam and Adam Whitelock, who helped them pass 50.

England, who had lost 15-12 to Australia in the semis, secured third place with a 26-19 win over Fiji.