MELROSE Rugby has announced its plans to change the date of its annual sevens tournament.

The Melrose Sevens, a highlight of the Borders rugby calendar, will move to the May Bank Holiday in 2025 from its traditional weekend in April. 

The move comes after the Scottish Premiership League announced its season's extended fixture dates.

The 2024-25 fixtures would see the traditional Sevens weekend earmarked for rescheduled fixtures which could impact team and referee availability should the tournament have continued.

Tournament director, Phil Morris, said: “We believe this date change will not only alleviate any scheduling conflicts, but also provide an exciting opportunity for fans to enjoy the tournament during a festive bank holiday weekend.

"We look forward to welcoming rugby enthusiasts from around the world to Melrose for what promises to be another fantastic weekend of rugby.

"We have responded to concerns about semi-pro or specialised sevens guest teams being too powerful with a focus on inviting recognised club strength teams, with the ambition that the Scottish rugby public will continue to enjoy the highest standard of sevens at Melrose, the birthplace of the sevens game.

"Melrose Sevens are proud to offer continued support for the growth of Women's Rugby by also inviting the very best female players to compete in a four team pool format competition.

"We hope both competitions continue to develop rugby sevens, as well as showcasing the heritage and values of the game of rugby here in the Scottish Borders."

The traditional 1883 Centenary Cup will take place on Saturday, May 24.

Twenty four teams will join the competition which retains its traditional knockout format.

Clubs from New Zealand, Australia, England and France have already expressed their interest in taking part.

Scottish sides will compete against invitational teams from recognised clubs with club strength players.

Melrose Rugby is also looking ahead to the club's 150th anniversary celebrations in 2027 and the 150th playing of the Melrose Sevens in 2033.

Mr Morris added: "The Melrose Sevens is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, the attraction of quality teams and spectators from across the globe and we are sure that the 2025 tournament will live up to this legacy."

For more information on Melrose Sevens, visit: melrose7s.co.uk