LONDON - The young New Zealand Sevens rugby team vowed to play the final day of the world series tournament in Paris overnight for their father-figure leader Eric Rush, according to replacement captain Karl TeNana.
Rush badly wrenched his ankle in the opening game against Morocco and has taken no further part in the tournament.
He was x-rayed in a nearby hospital and, though nothing was broken, was ruled out of action.
New Zealand beat Morocco 28-19, the United States 59-0 and Argentina 28-12 to win their pool on the opening day yesterday but at times lacked fire and direction. Fiji were even more impressive in disposing of Japan 61-0, Ireland 50-0 and France 35-14.
TeNana said losing Rush had worried the team's younger players.
"He has put in so much work to this side so we'll be putting it in for him. He's a father-figure to a lot of us and we'll be playing the last day for him.
"He'll be hurting for us on the sideline but he gives us so much confidence. We also have a carrot of a Super 12 contract so we have it all in front of us. I have gone from the bench to captain so I hope to give it everything in Rushy's absence."
After 13 years of playing sevens, Rush looked a sorry figure hobbling alone on the sideline quietly watching his team-mates, some 15 years his junior.
Coach Gordon Tietjens said it was a huge blow losing Rush.
"He's our leader and is really inspirational on the field. Now the other players have to take ownership as Rushy has played a part in every finals day until now."
New Zealand opened their Paris campaign in perfect conditions but lacked aggression and failed to establish any rhythm in beating Morocco 28-19.
Morocco scored the first two tries of the game from a kick ahead and from an offside pick-up to lead 12-0.
New Zealand made amends in their second game, thumping the States 52-0 with Justin Wilson rattling in three tries.
- NZPA
Rugby: Limping Rush inspires sevens
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