There is a significant difference in conditioning and game speed between players in the Skipper Cup and those participating in the Super Rugby Pacific competition. This assessment was made by Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne during an interview with SUNsports. He explained that Naitasiri hooker Kavaia Tagivetaua was the only locally-based player included in the Flying Fijians squad for the Pacific Nations Cup.
Byrne emphasized that players are now in a fully professional rugby environment, which includes rigorous training routines. He acknowledged the challenge of elevating the fitness levels of Skipper Cup teams to match those required for higher levels of rugby.
He expressed eagerness to collaborate with Skipper Cup coaches to help bridge this gap. Byrne mentioned that they received valuable scientific insights from players who participated in the Skipper Cup this year, highlighting the existence of talented individuals who could potentially advance to the Fijians Warriors program.
Byrne is optimistic that these talented players may earn a spot in the Drua franchise club through their performance in the Warriors program.
Additionally, 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 league, is recognized for his strong running ability in the midfield.
Byrne looks forward to integrating Cocagi into their campaign. Although Cocagi has played two Test matches for the Flying Fijians under former coach Vern Cotter, his background includes playing for Lomary Secondary School and a stint with the NRL club Newcastle Knights.
Byrne regards the Pacific Nations Cup as an opportunity to assess players, noting that Cocagi’s skills in ball carrying will be essential in matches against other Pacific teams. He also mentioned that hooker Zuriel Togiatama was absent from selection due to family matters in Auckland, New Zealand, allowing Simione Kuruvoli, who has been consistently playing since the World Cup, to take a well-deserved break to spend time with his family.
The 30-member Flying Fijians squad is set to report to camp tomorrow.