It usually takes top sevens players 2-3 seasons before someone is willing to give then the chance to step up to Super Rugby.

That was the case for the latest crop, Sherwin Stowers, Kurt Baker and Fritz Lee.

But given the mass exodus likely after the World Cup later this year, we could see the likes of Declan O’Donnell and Frank Halai promoted to Super Rugby in 2012 just one year after making their sevens debut.
Frank Halai, Waikato & New Zealand Sevens

Halai and O’Donnell are causing a stir in the sevens world running around and through defenders, scoring lots of tries.

O’Donnell scored 10 tries at the Wellington Sevens including 3 in the final. That moved him into first equal on the season’s top try scorers table with 17. Frank Halai is not far behind on 13.

Declan O'Donnell, Waikato & New Zealand Sevens

Planning to leave

Luke McAllister is already making plans for his next move and Ali Williams has had plans to head to the USA for some time. Their have also been reports about Brad Thorne, Sonny-Bill Williams and Mike Delaney.

Others are at that point in their careers when travel and greater pay prospects are becoming more and more attractive. Mils Muliaina falls into this category. Others may also be feeling the urge – Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Corey Jane, Jo Rokocoko perhaps.

Many have already left
We listed 14 players who have already left New Zealand – that’s nearly a whole team!

But the reward for those who don’t go will be Super Rugby contracts in 2012.

New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Teitjens is certainly doing his bit – exposing new crops of players to international competition and an elite level of fitness.

But Teitjens won’t be around forever either.

As the sevens game gains momentum around the world, the demand for a coach and talent spotter like Teitjens in emerging rugby markets like China and the USA will be considerable.