THE veil over Middle Eastern rugby has been lifted with women players included at this year's Dubai Sevens.
And Hong Kong, who in the past have taken part in this popular annual tournament, will be represented by a women's team, for the first time, this Thursday and Friday.
In a highly unexpected move, the organisers of the Dubai Sevens have this year included a tournament for women - and they have invited the Police women's rugby team to come along.
'We were delighted to receive the invitation and we accepted immediately. It will be the first time that a women's team from Hong Kong will play in an international tournament abroad,' said Shelly Naismith, the main driving force behind the Police women's team.
They leave today for Dubai, without packing their purdah in the kit bag.
'Yes it is surprising that the organisers have included a women's tournament, in a Middle Eastern country,' said Naismith.