Rugby: Chance for Lee to shine at sevens

Fritz Lee is the only new player in the NZ sevens squad. Photo / Getty Images

Counties Manukau forward Fritz Lee has been given the chance to display his wares for New Zealand at this weekend's round of the World Rugby Sevens series in Wellington.

Coach Gordon Tietjens, whose side leads the series after winning the opening two rounds at Dubai and South Africa, has otherwise stuck with tried and trusted players heading into the third round.

Lee stood out in Counties Manukau's run to the semifinals at last month's national sevens tournament in Queenstown and the 21-year-old joins provincial teammates DJ Forbes and Sherwin Stowers in Tietjens' side.

Experienced Bay of Plenty player Solomon King was not considered because of injury.

"The squad has trained very well over the last few days and a lot of players put up their hands for selection," Tietjens said.

"I have picked an experienced side and hopefully the team can continue with the great start they have had to the series.

"It's always great to play at home and Wellington is a pretty special tournament. The players know there is a little more pressure and expectation than usual, but they want to really turn it on for the home crowd."

New Zealand lost 19-17 to England in last year's Wellington final.

NZ SEVENS TEAM

Kurt Baker (Taranaki), Tomasi Cama (Manawatu), DJ Forbes (Counties Manukau), Paul Grant (Otago), Tim Mikkelson (Waikato), Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty), Fritz Lee (Counties Manukau), Lote Raikabula (Manawatu), Ben Souness (Taranaki), Sherwin Stowers (Counties Manukau), Nafi Tuitavake (North Harbour), Save Tokula (Waikato).

- NZPA