Blitzboks captain Philip Snyman is confident his side can maintain their successful run despite losing two key players.

South Africa have a heathly lead at the top of the World Rugby Sevens standings, after tournament wins in Dubai, Wellington and Sydney, and a runners-up finish in Cape Town.

But they have recently said goodbye to stars Seabelo Senatla and Kwagga Smith, who have rejoined their Super Rugby franchises, while Kyle Brown and Tim Agaba are still recovering from injury.

Snyman, though, remains optimistic.

'We have lost some personnel, but there are some new faces coming into the mix and fitting in very well,' he said. 'I think we have prepared brilliantly and everyone is on the same commitment level. There is a good vibe in the squad and we want to get going.'

For Blitzboks coach Neil Powell it will all be about momentum and consistency when they start their Las Vegas Sevens campaign against Canada on Saturday (04:43 SA time).

'We are aiming among other things to maintain those, because if we do, it will deliver a good result,' said Powell. 'We have lost the likes of Kwagga and Seabelo, but if the new guys can step in without disrupting our rhythm, we should be OK. They know what their roles are and I have faith in their abilities.'

Powell pointed to Siviwe Soyizwapi as their key man, having replaced Senatla.

'We are lucky to have experienced campaigners such as Cecil Afrika and Stephan Dippenaar back in the mix, but I am keen to see Siviwe respond to the challenge of filling Sea's boots. I think he is going to surprise a lot of people.'

The Blitzboks play France at 07:42 (SA time) on Saturday, with their final Pool A match against Wales on Sunday at 02:08.

Photo: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images