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Sevens trip is 'big test' for players

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Tigers' player development manager Carl Douglas believes all the players travelling to Twickenham for the Middlesex Sevens will benefit greatly from the experience.

Last year's beaten finalists have selected a mix of academy and first-team players for the first big event on the 2007/08 domestic calendar this weekend.

England Sevens cap Tom Croft and Saxons internationals Jordan Crane and Ayoola Erinle provide experience, while the likes of Rickie Aley, Will Lawson and Billy Twelvetrees sample the big stage for the first time. Ben Youngs returns to the scene of his impressive performance in last season's Guinness Premiership Final, while Vavae Tuilagi will be looking to mirror the impact had by older brother Alesana in that same match.

Douglas sees the showcase event as the perfect testing ground for every member of his squad as Tigers continue their pre-season preparations.

"The reality of sevens at this level is that it's very hard work for the players," said Douglas. "While it's a fantastic opportunity, there's no doubt that this is going to be a challenge for the players, both young and old.

"Individual skills are put to the absolute test and you're at the mercy of your opponent. Your decision-making, contact skills, ability in the tackle and handling skills are all tested massively as there's far more opportunity for one-versus-one situations.

"Everyone knows that sevens is very physically demanding. The older guys have been working hard with Craig White and the team so it will be a great test for them to see where they're at and where they need to get to in terms of their own personal fitness.

"All the clubs will be putting in a number of players who will make a massive contribution on the day at Twickenham and hopefully make the tournament all that everyone wants it to be. We've got that classic mix of youth and experience, and we're going to give it our best shot. Hopefully, we'll do as well as we can because it would certainly be great to win it."