The captain Selvyn Davids, as well as the exciting Tiaan Pretorius, are among the casualties, while Rosko ‘Specmagic’ Specman no longer plays Sevens.

In addition, Siviwe Soyizwapi has moved from the backs to the forwards and this will be a tricky transition for the former captain who may take up the leadership role again in the absence of Davids.

Philip Snyman. Photo: David van der Sandt

In addition, a player like Justin Geduld is no longer available after switching to the 15-man code by joining the Stormers.

The coach and former Cheetahs winger, Philip Snyman, said this allows new players to make a statement early in the season. “Obviously it is never nice to lose players to injury, but I am happy with the 17 players we have for Dubai, they are training well and the squad is coming along nicely,” said Snyman.

“We have several strong and experienced leaders in the squad and I believe this will serve us best for now, while Selvyn is away and Siviwe comes to grips with his new position.

“I have a couple of players in mind for those roles, but will confirm them later.”

The season will kick off on 29 November with the Dubai Sevens, followed by the Cape Town Sevens a week later.

Blitzboks training squad for Dubai – Christie Grobbelaar, David Brits, Ryan Oosthuizen, Siviwe Soyizwapi, Zain Davids, Impi Visser, Ronald Brown, Ricardo Duarttee, Shaun Williams, Tristan Leyds, Dewald Human, Rowan Malgas, Shilton van Wyk, Donovan Don, Mfundo Ndhlovu, Quewin Nortje, Joel Leotlela

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg/mvh