4-Unis Cup Kicks Off Tonight!

With the 4-Unis cup kicking off its first match today, the defending champions - SMU - have much to prove. In a press conference this morning, Head Coach Hairul Naim set things straight by naming his squad of 30. SMU Rugby has much to prove after a dismal showing at the 2009 Singapore University Games. We now give you a wrapup of some decisions made, the debutants and some surprise call-ups .

1. Shen Sijie, a.k.a. The Animal, returns to the pitch after taking a 2 year break from rugby. Once rated one of the 'dirtiest players ever' (see previous post), the Animal is expected to bolster a forward pack that is sorely missing the services of former executive committee members - Sherman Yeo and Daniel Lee - who are currently partying in Europe.

The Animal picking his prey before the game

2. Former SA vice captain, Eugene Tan, has been named in the squad of 30, despite a prolonged hiatus from rugby. The player was last seen hitting the gym, screaming profanities directed at opposing teams whilst engaging in his workout. Will his quirky ways blend well with the team?

3. With the inclusion of Stuart and Kah Wei to an already impressive backline, team captain, Derek Chan, has hailed his backline as 'one of the best SMU has ever seen'. Much is expected from the talented backline, and in Derek Chan's words - "we can expect to see some champagne rugby".

4. SMU Rugby has finally changed their transfer policy, and have started looking away from this sunny island for talent. Our talent scouts this year have brought two foreign imports to the team - namely Luc (French) and Dunk (Thai). The two impact players are expected to figure in Coach Hairul's plans to retain the 4-Unis Cup.

The City Boys kick off their first match against the Boon Lay Warriors at 8pm on Thursday, 25 February, at the NUS Sports Complex.