The two teams will clash on the field tomorrow evening, but Dubai Exiles and Dubai Hurricanes will come together for the weekend to host one of the UAE and Middle East’s premier youth rugby tournaments.
The clubs jointly host the annual HSBC Mini and Youth Rugby Tournament at The Sevens Stadium tomorrow and Saturday ahead of the pair’s senior men’s sides clashing in a derby match at the same venue tomorrow night.
Former England and British & Irish Lions international Lewis Moody will be in attendance, with 3,000 players expected to take part.
Rohan Nash, of Exiles, and Canes’ Peter Clapp are joint tournament directors, and Nashis excited the tournament can play a part in growing the game of rugby in the region.
“I can’t speak for other tournaments, but many clubs in the region and beyond see our tournament as a key event to attend in their mini and youth rugby season,” said Nash.
“We have established a critical mass over the past nine years, thanks in large part to the valued support of HSBC and our other tournament sponsors.
“We also rely on the army of volunteers who provide vital support on the day as well as preparing their teams for the event.
“Mini and youth club rugby in Dubai has played a significant role in attracting many male and female players from all over the world to participate in and benefit from the wonderful game of rugby.
“With the support of the UAE Rugby Federation and schools rugby, we expect to see the game of rugby grow in the UAE and for our tournament to continue be a major fixture for years to come.”
And Nash added that Canes and Exiles are happy to put aside their rivalry for the sake of the game’s future.
“Exiles and Hurricanes put aside their friendly rivalries and decided to co-host rather than offer competing tournaments,” added Nash.
“The playing grounds of both clubs are located at the world class Sevens Stadium and sharing this venue makes co-hosting the tournament a sensible decision.
“The organising committee is made up of representatives from both clubs and the volunteers on the day consist of Hurricane and Exiles parents.”
