London Scottish captain Mark Bright, sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management, has been called up to the England Sevens squad for this weekend’s IRB World Series tournament in South Africa.

The 36-year-old, who starred for his adopted country during the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, flew out earlier this week ahead of the event in Port Elizabeth.

Kiwi-born Bright will come up against his country of birth after England were drawn in Pool D alongside New Zealand, Samoa and Japan.

London Scottish Director of Rugby, Mike Friday, said: “Huge congratulations must go to Mark who will be making his debut on the World Series circuit this weekend in South Africa.

“As a club we are keen to support the England Sevens programme as best we can and I'm sure Mark will equip himself very well this weekend.

“He misses our B&I Cup game against Pontypridd on Saturday but the ethos of this club is all about developing our players and allowing them the opportunity to play at the highest level possible.”

England Sevens Head Coach, Simon Amor, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to London Scottish for releasing Mark to us for the third round of the World Sevens Series.
 
“Unfortunately our centrally contracted group have suffered a number of injuries but we’re delighted to bring in someone of Mark’s proven ability.

“He was outstanding for us at the Commonwealth Games and we know that he’ll make a massive impact for us in this tournament.” 

Martin Gilbert, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Asset Management, said: “We are delighted Mark has once again been called up to the England Sevens squad.

“Mark made a great impact for England at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow this summer and I’m sure he will have a similar impact this weekend.

“We wish him all the best.”