Litmus tests for Aussies in Dubai pools

Australia's Sevens sides will have big challenges in their pools when they kick off the 2017-18 World Series in Dubai, drawn overnight.

The Aussie women will match up with ever-improving England in their opening tournament of the new season, giving them a litmus test first up in December.

Australia will also meet Russia and Japan in the competition, as they look to mount a return to top spot in the world Sevens pecking order.

The Aussie men won't have an easy assignment in the first 2017-18  leg, facing off against Olympic champions FIji in their pool.

Russia and Wales will be alongside the Pacific neighbours in Pool C.

Australia recently edged the heavyweight Fijians in an international invitational event, Oktoberfest 7s, for their first silverware since 2012. 

Plenty of eyes will be on Pool D, where New Zealand will take on speedsters the USA, the latter having become a real force in the competition.

The 2017-18 Dubai Sevens kicks off on November 30, 2017.

The Sydney 7s kicks off on January 26, 2018, with fans being encouraged to 'Go Extraordinary'. Tickets on sale here.

POOLS

Women's Dubai Sevens

Pool A  

New Zealand

USA

France

South Africa

Pool B

Australia

Russia 

England

Japan

Pool C

Canada

Fiji

Ireland

Spain

Men's Dubai Sevens

Pool A

South Africa

Canada

Kenya

Invitational side

Pool B

England

Scotland

France

Spain

Pool C

Fiji

Australia

Wales

Russia

Pool D

New Zealand

USA

Argentina

Samoa