Head Coach John Dalziel has named a core squad of seventeen, the largest since the core programme began, and has named co-captains who were ever present during his debut season in charge.

Speaking about the appointment, Dalziel said: “I have worked with Jamie and Robbie over several seasons at age grade level and with the 7s.

“Both have shown many outstanding leadership qualities in the way they operate on and off the field as astute professional athletes.

“Given the robust nature of 7s, I feel it is key to have co-captains who can work together supporting each other, the team and the coaches throughout the season.”

Former captain Scott Riddell will embark on his tenth season with Scotland 7s. During the coming season the 32-year old will continue to be available for selection, but alongside this will begin preparations for life after rugby, by continuing to work within the Scottish Rugby Coach Development Team.

Dalziel said: “Scott has been a fantastic servant for Scotland 7s and will continue to be a key member of the leadership group within this squad.

“He will use his extensive experience to assist Robbie and Jamie, as well as the coaching team and will continue to act as a role model to the younger players within the squad, helping his development as a coach and their development as players.”

Glenn Bryce and Ally Miller come in to the 7s programme full time, both having played on the World Series last year during their time with Edinburgh Rugby.

Alec Coombes, Harvey Elms, Ross McCann, Max McFarland and Sam Pecqueur all made their debuts on the World Series last season, earning core contracts this year through their impressive displays.

Nyle Godsmark is another player who has become essential to John Dalziel’s squad. He will spend the coming season exclusively with the 7s having shared time with Melrose last year.

Kyle Steyn will join up with his teammates following the conclusion of the Currie Cup. The Griquas captain made his Scotland 7s debut last season in Las Vegas.

Dalziel said: “It’s great to look back over the last twelve months and see progress in these youngsters, and in the group.

“Starting the new season with many of these players now full time alongside the more established names within the 7s programme is great.

“We now have a squad full of players have been outstanding age grade talents and are embarking on the next stage of their development towards pro rugby.”

There are two new faces in the squad. Former Scotland U20s fly-half Josh Henderson is named having spent a season playing for Stade Nicois last year.

Mungo Mason featured for Edinburgh Rugby during pre-season, having also previously played in the American MLR for San Diego Legion.

Dalziel said: “Josh and Mungo come in with previous experience from other cultures and environments and add a physical profile to our squad.

“Charlie McKill, Craig Jackson and Scott Bickerstaff have also trained with us alongside their Tennents Premiership club commitments and provide great depth to a very youthful and exciting squad.”

Core Scotland 7s squad for the 2018/19 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series. World Series Tournaments in brackets.

Glenn Bryce (16)

Alec Coombes (4)

Jack Cuthbert (9)

Harvey Elms (7)

Jamie Farndale (31) CO-CAPTAIN

Robbie Fergusson (9) CO-CAPTAIN

Nyle Godsmark (16)

Josh Henderson (0)

Gavin Lowe (24)

Mungo Mason (0)

Ross McCann (4)

Max McFarland (10)

Ally Miller (9)

Jo Nayacavou (36)

Sam Pecqueur (1)

Scott Riddell (67)

Kyle Steyn (2)

2018/19 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series

30 November/1 December – Dubai

8/9 December – Cape Town

26/27 January – Hamilton

2/3 February – Sydney

1/2/3 March – Las Vegas

9/10 – Vancouver

5/6/7 April – Hong Kong

13/14 April – Singapore

25/26 May – London

1/2 June - Paris