Rugby Sevens' most-capped player Uale Mai has withdrawn from Samoa's squad for next month's Commonwealth Games in New Delhi to take up a playing contract in Spain.

New Zealand-based Mai, long time playmaker for the Samoans and a key part in their maiden World Series triumph in 2009/10, is joining Spain's El Salvador club.

Samoa coach Stephen Betham has called up the talented Alatasi Tupou in Mai's place.

"It's a big loss. We are going to miss Uale's experience, but we cannot hold on to him," admitted Betham.

Samoan squad: Ofisa Trevaranius, Simaika Mikaele, Alafoti Faosiliva, Afa Aiono, Pale Toelupe, Apelu Fa'aiuga, Lolo Lui, Alatasi Tupou, Reupena Levasa, Mikaele Pesamino, Paul Chan Tung, Fautua Otto.

NZ Sevens injury doubts

New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Tietjens has fitness concerns over key players selected for the Commonwealth Games.

All Black Adam Thomson's availability is in limbo after he suffered medial ligament damage in Otago's 13-8 ITM Cup loss to Dunedin.

Sevens captain DJ Forbes came off the bench for Counties Manukau at the weekend but has barely run for two months while recovering from a groin injury. Playmaker Tomasi Cama fractured his cheek last month playing for Manawatu.

Wing Hosea Gear, meanwhile, has pronounced himself fit and ready for the Commonwealth Games, but stopped short of guaranteeing he will play against Canterbury on Saturday.

After two weeks on the sidelines with a sore hamstring, Gear helped the Lions beat Hawke's Bay, scoring a try and making another.

"The hammy has been giving me a bit of grief the last couple of weeks, so I've only been able to do off-the-feet training on the grinder and the rower and stuff," he said.

"I've got a couple of weeks up my sleeve to get this hammy right and be ready for the Games. I'm pretty confident now, but in the back of my mind that was what was keeping me off the field."

Video archive: Samoa strike World Series gold in Edinburgh