Hong Kong aiming to gain footing on international rugby scene, ‘exciting prospect’ McNutt can spearhead new era

Hong Kong host Germany in two fixtures this week, with men’s head coach harbouring World Cup ambitions at outset of new four-year cycle

Flanker Tyler McNutt poised for debut, boasts quality to be at heart of side aiming to reach 2027 Australia showpiece

2-MIN READ2-MIN

Tyler McNutt is being tipped to lead Hong Kong into a new era, ahead of winning his first senior cap against Germany on Tuesday. Photo: World Rugby

Published: 8:00am, 14 Nov 2023

Head coach Andrew Douglas said two matches against Germany this week represented the first step towards “re-establishing Hong Kong in international rugby”.

The New Zealander was made head of technical rugby in August, a role that includes guiding the men’s team into a new era for the global game.

An expanded 24-team World Cup in 2027 has inevitably raised optimism over Hong Kong qualifying for the first time, while World Rugby has moved towards implementing a global calendar by 2026 that could help Tier 2 sides develop.

Douglas, who has formerly coached in his homeland, in addition to posts in Italy, Japan and USA, said the opportunity to play more opponents from outside Asia would only benefit his side.

Portugal toppled Fiji at this year’s Rugby World Cup to provide inspiration for fellow underdog nations. Photo: AP

“We have to develop a programme in Hong Kong that gives genuine opportunities to players and has aspirational ideas,” Douglas said. “We want to re-establish ourselves in international rugby.