Former Northland rugby captain Andrew Durutalo has been named in the USA Eagles team for the 2014 Gold Coast 7s tournament next week.

Coach Mike Friday revealed the former Suva Grammar School student would be among the experienced players in his team.

Madison Hughes has been named to captain the side for the opening leg of the series and will feature alongside Garrett Bender, Zack Test, Nic Edwards, Pat Blair, Folau Niua, Peter Tiberio, Danny Barrett, Maka Unufe, Carlin Isles and Perry Baker.

Friday explained how the Eagles planned to lift their game this season.

“There is a good balance of physicality and power in this squad. We know it’s going to be tough on the 7s circuit with New Zealand, South Africa, Fiji, England, Australia, and Samoa, and our immediate aim is to become an opponent that these teams are nervous to play against.”

The Eagles are in Pool D with Argentina, Canada, and England for the Oct. 11-12 Series opener.

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