For Makata, coming to Hong Kong is hugely inspiring. He was due to play in the Far Eastern city last year as part of a youthful Blitzboks squad, but injury ruled him out of contention.

The news about the younger squad travelling to Hong Kong while the senior squad stay behind to prepare for the Commonwealth Games was communicated way ahead of the actual event, and that was something driving the SA Rugby Sevens Academy guys a year go. But, says Makata, the injury that kept him out of the trip last year was a blessing in disguise.

"To be honest, I am in a much better space this year than in 2018 and in a way, happy that I could not make the trip then,” said Makata.

“This time around, my body is stronger, I had a solid run in the last couple of weeks and I am feeling confident in my abilities. That would not necessarily have been the case a year ago, to be honest.

“Also, the vast amount of experience in this squad provides a much better platform for me to tap into their knowledge,” added Makata.

He is still inexperienced at this level, but for the former Border Craven Week winger, the exposure of playing in Las Vegas and Vancouver was immense.

“The first two tournaments were good for me. I learned a lot. This time, here in Hong Kong, I would like to play more. I am ready for that,” said Makata.

The Blitzboks face Japan, Samoa and Scotland in Pool A of the tournament.