There is a significant difference in conditioning and game speed between players in the Skipper Cup and those competing in the Super Rugby Pacific, according to Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne. In an interview with SUNsports, he addressed the selection of Naitasiri hooker Kavaia Tagivetaua as the only local-based provincial player in the Flying Fijians squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup.
Byrne acknowledged the need for players to adapt to a more professional rugby environment, which includes rigorous training and a full commitment to the sport. He emphasized the challenge ahead in elevating Skipper Cup teams to meet the required fitness and skill levels.
The coach expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with Skipper Cup coaches to help bridge the gap between the two competitions. He mentioned receiving valuable scientific feedback from Skipper Cup players regarding their energy levels and performance metrics, indicating the presence of promising talent that could be developed further within the Fijian Warriors program.
In terms of squad depth, Byrne highlighted the inclusion of France-based Adrea Cocagi for the second-five eighth position. Cocagi, currently playing for Castres in the Top 14, is recognized for his strong running capabilities in the midfield. Byrne looks forward to Cocagi’s contributions during the campaign, noting that he has already represented the Flying Fijians in two Test matches under former head coach Vern Cotter.
Cocagi, who hails from Nuku Village in Serua and attended Lomary Secondary School before signing with the Newcastle Knights in the NRL, is seen as a valuable asset. Byrne believes the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup will serve as an opportunity to evaluate the players and assess their readiness, especially considering the physical demands of competing against top Pacific teams.
Byrne also shared that hooker Zuriel Togiatama was not selected due to personal family commitments in Auckland, New Zealand. He noted that Simione Kuruvoli, who has been active since the World Cup, deserves a break to spend time with his family.
The 30-member Flying Fijians squad is set to report to camp tomorrow.