Eleven players, most of whom featured in the Super Rugby Under 20’s tournament in New Zealand, have been included in the national side that is preparing for the Oceania U20 championship to be held in Sigatoka later this month.
And head coach Senirusi Seruvakula says 6 are from Australia, 3 from New Zealand and one each have come from the USA and France.
The eleven players are:
Charlie Tagicakibau (Aust), Mosese Ravula (Aust), Vaimoe Koroi (Aust), Apenisa Naevo (NZ), Noa Rauluni (Aust), Thomas Setaia (NZ), Adam Khan (Aust), Meli Tueli (USA), Bogi Kikau (NZ), Vilimone Bainibure(France), Iliesa Baravilala (Aust).
“These boys have been playing alot of more club rugby and have more competitions amongst schools in both Australia and New Zealand and in the USA and France. I’ve been really impressed with their games which is why they have been included.”
“In Fiji, we only have one and that’s the annnual Deans trophy which is not enough to prep our boys for the skills that these overseas teams come with. That was one thing that stood out for me and the coaching panel when we were in New Zealand for the Super Rugby U20s tournament.”
The overseas based players will join the squad next week as they prepare for the tournament which will take place from May 26 to June 11th at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
