New Zealand may have been the IRB World series champions eight times in the last nine years, but coach Gordon Tietjens still sees his side as underdogs for the Dubai 7s tournament which kicks off this afternoon.

The Men In Black kickoff the defense of the Dubai trophy today with pool games against Australia, Wales and Zimbabwe.

And although New Zealand totally dominated last season, winning six of the eight tournaments that make up the World Series, Tietjens believe it is unfair to label his side as favourites this time around.

He said New Zealand had some pretty good years but that was due to a lot of hard work. he feels there are probably six or seven teams around that are capable of winning any tournament.

The Dubai 7s tournament starts at 5:30pm today with New Zealand playing the opening match against Wales.