There is a significant disparity in fitness and game intensity between players in the Skipper Cup and those in the Super Rugby Pacific league. This was highlighted by Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne in an interview with SUNsports. He addressed the selection of Naitasiri hooker Kavaia Tagivetaua as the lone local-based player in the Flying Fijians squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup.
Byrne noted that the current preparation for the athletes resembles a full professional setup, emphasizing the need for consistent training. “One of our challenges moving forward is to ensure that our Skipper Cup teams are working hard toward the level of rugby and the fitness level that we want,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Byrne expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Skipper Cup coaches to help bridge the gap between the two competitions. He also mentioned the promising feedback received from players participating in the Skipper Cup this year regarding their performance metrics. “There are some real good talents that we’ll be looking forward to bringing through to the Fijians Warriors programme,” he added.
Byrne is optimistic that some talented players from the Skipper Cup could eventually join the Drua franchise. “These players might push themselves into our team through the Warriors,” he remarked.
In other news, 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, is recognized for his strong running abilities. Byrne expressed anticipation for Cocagi’s contribution to the campaign, noting that he has previously played two Test matches under head coach Vern Cotter.
Cocagi is originally from Nuku Village in Serua and played for Lomary Secondary School before joining the NRL club Newcastle Knights. Byrne emphasized that the Pacific Nations Cup would serve as a key opportunity to evaluate the players, specifically pointing out Cocagi’s potential as a crucial asset.
Additionally, hooker Zuriel Togiatama will not be part of the selection due to family matters in Auckland, New Zealand. Byrne mentioned that he has been in touch with Simione Kuruvoli, who has been consistently active since the World Cup, and deserved some time off to be with his family.
The 30-member Flying Fijians squad is set to report to training camp tomorrow.