All Blacks Sevens eye revenge against Japan

Japan stunned the New Zealanders in Rio. Credit: Image - Getty; Video - Sky Sports/Newshub.

The All Black Sevens are determined to leave their mark in Hamilton this weekend with talk the leg could alternate with Fiji from next year.  

Tim Mikkelson returns to side to lead them on his home track and he's got revenge on his mind first game up

It's the first time Mikkelson will face Japan since the Olympic upset and he doesn't want a repeat performance.

"Japan have got that flare, they off load, they cut, they grubber, they're so unpredictable and that's what makes them so good," said Mikkelson.

But the All Blacks Sevens are championing a melting pot of cultures for their recent success at the World Cup and in Dubai.

Their regular ritual is singing verses from each player's heritage.

"At first the boys were a little hesitant, but after a year of doing it the boys love it eh and every year we add songs and songs.

"It's good, we all come from different backgrounds so we want everyone to bring their side in."

This weekend they're motivated by what will hopefully be their first win at home since 2016.

The side sit second in the World Series standings and a top four finish will automatically qualify them for next year's Tokyo Olympics.

"That's the goal is to win the world series, it's not about finishing fourth for us."

Tim Mikkelson ready to make his mark on his home ground this weekend.

Newshub.

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