Kazakhstan ended their Hong Kong Sevens experience with one wins and thre losses after two competitive days of action.
Despite falling short in their bid to qualify for the , Kazakhstan are aware that the Hong Kong tournament was more about gaining valuable experience against international sides as their development continues.
On day one they lost to both Poland and Brazil by two points with conversions proving the difference following an opening 17-12 win over Argentina before falling short against Brazil for a second time, 21-5, on day two.
However, facing Brazil twice was one of the highlights for Kazakhstan’s Svetlana Klyuchnikova, who played a key role over the two days.
“We tried to show our skills and do our best to qualify for the Olympics in Tokyo 2020,” said Klyuchnikova.
“But despite some close games we fell short in our goal. But it’s very important for us just to be a part of this an amazing tournament.
“We had a great experience and gained valuable practice against strong teams like Argentina and Brazil twice.”
The work does not stop here though for Kazakhstan as they will be among the favourites to qualify for next year’s Olympic Games in Tokyo.
With Japan guaranteed a spot as hosts, Asia will have at least two sides in both the men’s and women’s competition.
In November the best Asian women’s sides will meet in China to determine the Asian qualifier, with the second and third placed sides heading to the global repechage for a chance to claim the 12th and final spot.
In 2018 that would have been China and Kazakhstan but 2019 is a new year with all sides becoming increasingly competitive.
“We fully understand it’s a good experience for our team and to have a chance now to look ahead to the Asia Rugby Sevens Series and the Olympic qualifier,” added Klyuchnikova.
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“We have to develop our skills at international rugby events like these. They help us to find new youthful talent.
“Nowadays women’s rugby is growing very well in Kazakhstan. We have support from our NOC and that’s good for developing the game on the ground.”
