Borneo Sevens Celebrates 20th Anniversary with International Flair and Community Spirit

18 April 2025

SANDAKAN: The prestigious Borneo Sevens International Rugby Tournament returns for its landmark 20th edition this weekend, promising two days of electrifying rugby action and community celebration at the Eagles Rugby Club in Bandar Utama, Sandakan

Taking place on 19 and 20 April (Saturday and Sunday), the tournament has become a staple in Asia’s rugby calendar, drawing top-tier national and representative teams from across the region This year’s edition embraces the theme of “Unity and Sustainability,” reflecting not only the diverse international participation but also the tournament’s growing focus on social and environmental impact

Sanctioned by both the Malaysia Rugby Union and Asia Rugby, the Borneo Sevens has, over the past two decades, established itself as a proving ground for high-calibre rugby sevens talent, including development squads from across Asia and the Pacific Among the countries represented in the 2025 tournament are Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, Uzbekistan, the UAE, China, and Australia

While the reigning men's champions, the New Zealand Cavaliers, will not be defending their title this year, anticipation is high as the host side, the Borneo Eagles, looks to reclaim the crown

In the men’s competition:

Pool A: 

Borneo Eagles (Malaysia) 

Uzbekistan 

Malaysia University 

DKI Jakarta (Indonesia) 

Pool B:

Briars RFC (Australia) 

Shaheen 7s (UAE) 

Singapore Development 

All For One (Thailand) 

Since its reintroduction in 2017, the Women’s Sevens has grown steadily Defending champions Borneo Flyers, a formidable team that combines local Sabah talent with players from New Zealand, will headline the women’s competition

Pool C: 

Borneo Flyers (Malaysia) 

Briars RFC (Australia) 

Singapore Development 

Pool D: 

Uzbekistan 

Eagles RFC Select (Philippines) 

DKI Jakarta (Indonesia) 

Huangganguoji RC (China) 

Leading up to the main tournament, the Borneo Sevens Junior Carnival will take place on 17 and 18 April, featuring youth contact and touch rugby for both boys and girls in various age groups This initiative underscores the tournament’s commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering the game at the grassroots level

Prior to this, a School Rugby Clinic was held on 16 April, offering training and inspiration to budding players.

Complementing the sporting excitement, fans can also enjoy the Borneo Fest, running concurrently on 19 and 20 April, showcasing local culture, food, and family-friendly entertainment Additionally, a Functional Fitness Race on Saturday will test participants' endurance and agility in a celebration of athleticism beyond the rugby pitch.

As the Borneo Sevens marks 20 years of sporting excellence, community involvement, and international camaraderie, Sandakan is set to once again host one of the region’s most anticipated and dynamic rugby festivals.