There is a noticeable difference in conditioning and game speed between players in the Skipper Cup and those participating in the Super Rugby Pacific competition. This assessment comes from Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne, who shared his thoughts during an interview with SUNsports. He explained that Naitasiri hooker Kavaia Tagivetaua was the only local-based player included in the Flying Fijians squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup due to these disparities.
Byrne emphasized the importance of establishing a professional rugby environment, stating, “At this early stage, we have a full professional rugby setup, which means getting up in the morning, training, and working on rugby.” He identified the challenge ahead as ensuring that Skipper Cup teams strive to meet the fitness levels required for higher-level rugby.
Looking ahead, Byrne expressed eagerness to collaborate with Skipper Cup coaches to bridge the gap between the two competitions. He noted that scientific feedback from players in the Skipper Cup has provided valuable insights regarding their energy levels and performance statistics. He highlighted the potential talent pool that could be developed for the Fijian Warriors program.
Byrne also expressed hope that talented players from the Skipper Cup could join the Drua franchise club, stating, “These players might push themselves into our team through the Warriors.”
In other news, France-based Adrea Cocagi has been selected for the Flying Fijians to strengthen the second-five eighth position. Byrne praised Cocagi’s abilities, describing him as a strong runner in midfield. Cocagi has participated in two Test matches for the Flying Fijians and has experience playing for Castres in the Top 14 competition.
Byrne also mentioned that the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup would serve as an opportunity to evaluate players. He underscored Cocagi’s potential as a ball-carrying player necessary for competing against Pacific rivals.
Additionally, hooker Zuriel Togiatama was not selected due to family commitments in Auckland, New Zealand. Byrne noted that Simione Kuruvoli has been performing well since the World Cup and deserved a break to spend time with his family.
The 30-member Flying Fijians squad is set to report to camp tomorrow.