The 14th Phuket Heineken International Rugby Phuket 10s tournament will kick off on May 25 and run through to May 27, with all the action taking place at the Kata Group Sports Ground on Chao Fa West Road.
Friday (May 25) will see proceedings kick off with the Coffin Dodgers Vets tournament, while Saturday and Sunday will see teams compete in the main competition.
Previous champions Kriel Roosters (South Africa), Morrabbin Rams (Australia) and the Emirates Airlines Flying Muppets will all be hoping to replicate their previous success, though defending champions the Royal Thai Police will not be competing.
Lining up alongside old favourites The Bucks, Bedok Kings and Wanderers (all from Singapore), The Thai Legends and the Asian Japanese Dragons, will be a few newcomers, with a strong contingent from Australia in the South Coast Black Cockatoos, Newcastle Crockatoos and Groote Eylandt Mudchooks.
First timers YCAC from Japan will also be serious contenders for the title, as will the Abu Dhabi Saracens, The Assassins from UK, Hong Kong Raiders, Lanka Lions and Taipei Baboons.
Hosts the Phuket Vagabonds will continue their long rivalry with old friends the Bangkok Bangers in what should be an explosive tournament for both sides.
The Phuket News will be checking up on the Vagabonds’ tournament preparations in next week’s edition.