There is a significant disparity in conditioning and game pace between players in the Skipper Cup and those competing in the Super Rugby Pacific league. This observation was made by Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne in a recent interview with SUNsports. He commented on the selection of Naitasiri hooker Kavaia Tagivetaua as the sole local-based provincial player in the Flying Fijians squad for the Pacific Nations Cup.
Byrne noted that the current setup resembles a full professional rugby model, involving morning training sessions and dedicated work focused on the sport. He expressed the need for Skipper Cup teams to improve their fitness levels to meet the demands of higher-level rugby.
The coach is eager to collaborate with Skipper Cup coaches to bridge the gap between the two competitions. He highlighted that there had been valuable scientific feedback from players participating in the Skipper Cup, which will inform their development within the Fijian Warriors program.
Byrne is optimistic about the potential integration of skilled players from the Skipper Cup into the Fiji Drua franchise. He believes these athletes may distinguish themselves and earn a spot in the team through the Warriors program.
In addition, the inclusion of France-based Adrea Cocagi in the Flying Fijians squad aims to strengthen the second-five eighth position. Cocagi, who plays for Castres in the Top 14 competition, is recognized for his powerful running style in the midfield.
The coach looks forward to seeing Cocagi contribute during the upcoming campaign. Cocagi has previously played two Test matches for the Flying Fijians under head coach Vern Cotter and has a background in rugby from Lomary Secondary School before joining the NRL’s Newcastle Knights.
Byrne emphasized that the Pacific Nations Cup would serve as an essential opportunity to evaluate player performance. He mentioned that hooker Zuriel Togiatama was not selected due to family circumstances in Auckland, New Zealand, explaining that he had consulted with Simione Kuruvoli, who has been active since the World Cup.
The 30-member Flying Fijians squad is set to report to camp tomorrow.