Crusaders utility back Adam Whitelock is the surprise addition to the New Zealand Sevens squad for the World Series tournaments in Glasgow and London next month.
"Adam was quite simply outstanding during the trial games this week,'' coach Gordon Tietjens said. "He comes with the reputation of being the fittest Crusader and fitness and conditioning are so important at this level.
"His fitness probably won him his spot. He was just so relentless. He is a very capable player and this gives us more depth as well as being a great opportunity for Adam to pursue a spot in the Commonwealth Games team.''
Two players from the Hong Kong Sevens team, Marty McKenzie and George Tilsley missed selection, as did veteran playmakers Tomasi Cama and Lote Raikabula.
"Both are tough calls because they have been such great players. That doesn't rule them out. They tick all the boxes. But this year I am prepared to try a couple of things. We are trying to grow the depth we have and if you have got that depth, you have a lot of strength.''
