INTERNATIONAL RUGBY: Asia Nations Division 2 Final

05.06.2010
India v Philippines in New Delhi

Venue: Delhi University Stadium

Referee:

Preview
Everything points towards an exciting final between these emerging rugby nations. Hosts India will want the win that will propel the side into Division 1 for 2011. With the commonwealth Games just around the corner and being held in New Delhi the game of rugby will be well advertised. For the Philippines their rise in Asian rugby has been amazing. They have progressed from regional tournaments a few years ago to being a real contender for Division 1.

India walked all over China on Wednesday in an unfortunate miss match. They will find the Philippines a well prepared and hardened side after the 'Volcanoes' defeated Thailand 53-23 in a hard fought match. On the face of it the Philippines look to be better prepared for this final but do not underestimate and Indian side playing in front of their home crowd. It should be a cracker!

These two teams have never met before.

Article here about Philippines preparations http://www.prfu.com/news-prfu-philippine-national-rugby-union-team-travel-to-australia-to-prepare-for-the-2010-asian-games.php

GWC Rugby Rankings
Asia Table-India 10th, Philippines 12th
IRB Rankings do not apply

Prediction: India by 7 points

Teams

Philippines squad
Phil Abraham (Randwick, Australia)
Justin Coveney (Newtown)
Austin Dacanay (Tampa Krewe)
Michael De Guzman (Beecroft)
Jay Flores (Modena)
Ronald Fong (Old Blue)
Cleo Gomez (Souths)
Chris Hitch (Easts)
Gareth Holgate (UWIC)
Jake Letts (Warringah, Australia)
Michael Letts (Warringah, Australia)
Fred Morris (British Armed Services)
Harry Morris (Dunvant)
Ben Saunders (Balmain)
Matt Saunders (Wentworthville)
Oliver Saunders (Wentworthville)
Ken Stern (Boston, United States)
Josh Sutcliffe (Charlotte)
James Ugarte (Hills)
Jaime Urquijo (Notre Dame)
Kenzo West (Devenport)
Andrew Wolff (Alabang Eagles, Philippines)
Raf Zapppia (Souths)
Rupert Zappia (Souths)
Head Coach: Expo Mejia

India Squad not available