There is a significant difference in conditioning and game pace between players in the Skipper Cup and those competing in the Super Rugby Pacific league. This perspective was shared by Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne during a recent interview. He highlighted that Naitasiri hooker Kavaia Tagivetaua was the sole local provincial player included in the Flying Fijians squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup.
Byrne noted the necessity for local players to improve their fitness and game standards to compete at a professional level. “At this early stage, we have a fully professional rugby setup, which involves training and concentrating solely on rugby,” he explained.
One of the challenges ahead is to assist Skipper Cup teams in enhancing their overall performance and fitness. Byrne expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Skipper Cup coaches to help bridge the gap between the two competitions. He mentioned the valuable scientific feedback from players who participated in this year’s Skipper Cup, which provided insights into their energy levels and performances. He sees potential in the talented players from the Skipper Cup to be developed for the Fijian Warriors program.
In relation to the Flying Fijians roster, the inclusion of France-based Adrea Cocagi aims to strengthen the second-five eighth position. Cocagi, known for his strong running skills in the midfield, plays for Castres in the Top 14 league. Byrne is optimistic about Cocagi contributing significantly to the team’s campaign, as he has already played two Test matches for the Flying Fijians.
Byrne also mentioned hooker Zuriel Togiatama’s absence from the squad due to family obligations in Auckland, New Zealand. He explained that Simione Kuruvoli has been a consistent performer since the World Cup and deserves a break to spend time with his family.
The 30-member Flying Fijians squad is set to report to training camp tomorrow.