Players to watch emerge after opening day at FISU Sevens Championship.

The opening day of the 2026 FISU World University Championship Rugby Sevens in Stellenbosch produced several individual performances that could shape the tournament as the competition moves towards the knockout stages. Across the men’s and women’s competitions, a number of players have already made their mark, with Australia, Canada, Japan, Argentina, Zimbabwe and South Africa among the nations providing some of the standout performers.

Shaun Byrne – Australia

Australia’s Shaun Byrne leads the men’s points-scoring standings with 15 points after scoring three tries in his side’s 24-21 victory over Zimbabwe. His ability to find space and finish opportunities makes him one of the players to watch as Australia look to build on their strong opening day.

PK Manyakara – Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s PK Manyakara has already shown that he can be a handful in attack, scoring two tries and two conversions for 14 points. His memorable 45-metre run against Argentina highlighted his pace and attacking intent, while he crossed the line again against Australia.

Kohki Yoshida – Japan

Japan’s Kohki Yoshida sits among the leading men’s scorers with 13 points after contributing a try and four conversions in Japan’s 36-0 victory over Mexico. His accurate goal-kicking and ability to influence broken play will be important as the defending champions push towards the knockout stages.

Keno Alexander – South Africa

South Africa’s Keno Storm Alexander made an immediate impact with two tries in the hosts’ 34-0 victory over Norway. His pace and finishing ability give the South African attack another dimension, particularly as the hosts look to make the most of home-ground advantage.

Ignacio María Migliore Pereyra Iraola – Argentina

Argentina’s Ignacio Maria Migliore Pereyra Iraola scored two tries and finished the opening day with 10 points. Working alongside an impressive Argentina attacking unit, his finishing ability could become increasingly important as the South Americans face tougher challenges.

Maronay Smuts – Australia

Australia’s Maronay Smuts leads the women’s points-scoring standings with 32 points after an outstanding opening day that included six tries. Her five-try performance against Botswana underlined her attacking threat and made her one of the standout players across the entire tournament.

Leilani Hills – Australia

Leilani Hills also made a significant impact for Australia, scoring five tries and collecting 25 points. Her pace and ability to finish attacking opportunities were evident in Australia’s victories and will make her a constant threat in the remaining pool matches.

Ava Ference – Canada

Canada’s Ava Ference has been central to her side’s unbeaten start, accumulating 22 points through 11 successful conversions. Her accuracy from the tee has complemented Canada’s attacking strength and helped the Canadians establish themselves as early favourites in the women’s competition.

Ava Van Santen – Canada

Ava Van Santen scored four tries and collected 20 points as Canada recorded two comprehensive victories on the opening day. Her finishing ability has already made her a key part of Canada’s attacking game, and one of the players opposition defences will need to contain.

Karin Tadano – Japan

Japan’s Karin Tadano scored two tries as the defending champions secured victories over the USA and South Africa. Her contribution was particularly important in Japan’s disciplined performances, and she will be one to watch as the tournament’s leading sides begin to meet.