There is a significant disparity in conditioning and game speed between players competing in the Skipper Cup and those in the Super Rugby Pacific competition. This observation was made by Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne during an interview with SUNsports. He explained that Naitasiri hooker Kavaia Tagivetaua was the sole local-based player included in the Flying Fijians squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup.
Byrne emphasized the need for a professional rugby setup, which involves consistent training and commitment to the sport. He highlighted the challenge ahead, which is to elevate the fitness levels within the Skipper Cup teams to match those of the higher competition.
Looking forward, Byrne expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Skipper Cup coaches to bridge the gap between the two competitions. He noted that they have received valuable scientific feedback from players in the Skipper Cup regarding their energy and performance metrics. Byrne sees substantial talent among these players and is keen on integrating them into the Fijian Warriors program.
He is optimistic that these skilled individuals from the Skipper Cup will have opportunities within the Drua franchise club, potentially advancing to the national team through the Warriors.
In other news, the inclusion of France-based Adrea Cocagi in the Flying Fijians squad is aimed at strengthening the depth in the second-five eighth position. Cocagi, a specialized second-five eighth, has been making a notable impact playing for Castres in the Top 14 competition. Byrne praised Cocagi as a strong running player in the midfield and is looking forward to his contributions in the upcoming campaign.
Cocagi has previously played two Test matches for the Flying Fijians under head coach Vern Cotter. Originally from Nuku Village in Serua, he attended Lomary Secondary School before joining the NRL’s Newcastle Knights.
Byrne sees the Pacific Nations Cup as an opportunity to evaluate players like Cocagi, noting his potential as a strong ball-carrier, which will be crucial in matches against other Pacific nations. Additionally, hooker Zuriel Togiatama has been left out of the squad due to family matters in Auckland, New Zealand. Byrne acknowledged Simione Kuruvoli, who has been consistently playing since the World Cup, and decided he deserved a break to spend time with his family.
The 30-member Flying Fijians squad is set to report to camp tomorrow.