The Asian Rugby Football Union’s Development Sevens Tournament kicks off this Friday at the Al Ain Amblers ground.

The IRB tournament welcomes teams from Afghanistan, Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia alongside hosts UAE to compete in a 2-day, 7-a-side-format competition.

An integral additional to the region’s rugby calendar, the tournament will focus on the ongoing development of emerging rugby nations through the sevens format.

The tournament will also be recognised as a seeding event for 2015’s Chennai Sevens in India.

“UAE Rugby is recognised by both ARFU and the IRB as a leader of the game’s governance and development, so it is paramount we continue to support our neighbouring unions, by providing and promoting tournaments such as the Al Ain Development 7’s series,” said Qais Al Dhalai, UAE Rugby’s Secretary-General.

Speaking about the all-Emirati National Sevens team, Mohamed Shaker, UAERF Team Manager said: “Our investment in our young Emirati players is a long-term programme. This competition supports our programme where we aim to build a strong base for national teams, consisting of talented young Emirati players.”

Day one’s games, on Friday October 31st, will commence at 09:00 and conclude with the last game kicking off at 17:44.

Day two’s games, Saturday November 1st, will start at 11am and conclude with the finals being played at 17:00 (5th and 6th place decider), 17:22 (3rd and 4th place decider) and 17:44 (1st place and runner-up decider). Entry to the ground is free.