Kratz back as Canada name squad for RAN 7s in Trinidad and Tobago

Lockie Kratz will make his return for Canada at the Rugby Americas North 7s this weekend after almost two years off the field.

A serious knee injury sustained by the 25-year-old in January 2024 has kept the American-born flyer out of action for 22 months.

Kratz made his Canada Men’s Sevens debut in 2021 and has also represented his country in XVs before he committed fully to the shortened format of the game.

“We’re thrilled to see Lockie back on the pitch,” Christiaan Esterhuizen, Canada’s interim head coach, said.

“He’s put in a tremendous amount of work through his rehab, and his presence brings experience, calmness, and leadership to the group.”

Kratz’s return to the fray is timely. Nearly two years on from the team’s relegation as a core team on the HSBC SVNS circuit, a win in the Caribbean will put them on the newly reformatted HSBC SVNS Series pathway.

Esterhuizen, who also oversees Rugby Canada’s Pacific Pride and men’s Under-20s programme, has named five players that will make their international debuts at the event that starts this Friday in Trinidad and Tobago.

The squad arrives as the incumbent champions of the competition and will play Barbados and Bermuda on the first day of competition before taking on Mexico on Saturday morning.

“Starting a new sevens season always brings fresh energy and clarity,” Esterhuizen said.

“This group has worked extremely hard over the past few months, and a strong start would set the tone for the standards we want to uphold as we climb back up the global tiers.

“We know the path is competitive, but we’re committed to putting together consistent, disciplined performances.”

Canada Men’s Sevens RAN7s Roster

1. Elias Hancock
2. Ethan Turner
3. Harry Corkum*
4. Ian Jones*
5. Jamie Armstrong
6. Jesse Kilgour
7. Johnny Franklin
8. Lockie Kratz
9. Michael Moloney*
10. Taine Clague*
11. Thomas?Cuzange*
12. Thomas Isherwood

Watch the Rugby Americas North 7s live on RugbyPass TV