Rugby sevens: NZ win ninth world title

Toby Arnold of New Zealand is tackled by Livai Ikanikoda and Setefano Cakau of Fiji. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand have won the world rugby sevens series for a ninth time despite being thrashed 42-19 by Fiji in the semifinals of the London tournament this morning (NZT).

Metuisela Talebula scored one of six tries for Fiji at Twickenham and converted the others as New Zealand failed to reach the cup final for just the third time in eight events this season, but they did enough to secure the world crown after England, the only team able to stop New Zealand hoisting the title going into the day, lost 19-17 to Kenya in the bowl quarterfinals.

New Zealand, which had already secured an unassailable lead in the overall standings with a 31-14 quarterfinal win over Argentina, clinched the title with one round - in Scotland next weekend - remaining.

It is their first title since 2007-08.

"Really happy to win the world series like we have and with a tournament to go," Tietjens told the tournament's website after their defeat of Argentina.

"It is really pleasing, the players can be proud of themselves because they have acquitted themselves really well.

"I haven't really thought about nine world series, because when you win one world title it is a great feeling. I've been in it a while now but just the same feeling and I feel for the players, they are the ones who have gone out and done it, they have delivered the goods and they can be proud of themselves."

South Africa went on to beat Fiji 24-14 in the final.

- NZPA