Hong Kong hero's emotional journey to 2027 Rugby World Cup
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In his 30s, the Australian-born centre considered the 2022 global repechage tournament in Dubai to be a singular chance to reach the pinnacle of his sport, having already committed five years to doing so.
Days before the team flew to the Middle East, Hill
told the Post he would not 'get another shot in four years' time – this is it'.
'I think most [of the squad] are like that, some of the younger guys might get another shot in four years, good luck to them, but this is it for me,' he added.
How things change. On Saturday, Hill, alongside plenty of those from Dubai, was on the pitch as Hong Kong qualified for the 2027 World Cup in Australia with a 70-22 victory over South Korea.
Hong Kong celebrate qualifying for the 2027 World Cup after beating South Korea in Incheon in the Asia Rugby Emirates Men's Championship. Photo: HKCR
The opportunity for direct qualification, courtesy of World Rugby expanding the tournament to 24 teams, was a 'massive' reason for Hill to continue working towards that goal.
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