National Under-20 head coach Senirusi Seruvakula is set to announce his final 30-member squad in the last week of January, as the team prepares for two major tournaments scheduled in New Zealand this coming March: the Oceania tournament and the Super U20 competition.
Seruvakula noted that most of the players selected for the extended squad hail from last year’s Vodafone Deans trophy competition, indicating a focus on local talent. There has also been significant interest from overseas-based players, with a few currently training with the team, which could enhance their competitive edge.
“Our primary focus is on these two tournaments,” Seruvakula remarked, emphasizing their representation at the Oceania event and later as the Drua U20 in the Super Rugby U20 competition. He mentioned that the Oceania tournament will feature teams from Tonga, Samoa, and Moana Pasifika.
The team is expected to depart in the last week of February. After the Oceania tournament concludes in early March, the players will have a short break before they begin the Super U20 competition, which will last approximately a week and a half.
In preparation for these events, Seruvakula and his coaching staff will conduct open trials in Duva, Sigatoka, and Nadi over Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, respectively, providing an opportunity for more players to showcase their skills.
This proactive approach towards inclusivity and nurturing local talent is promising, as it not only prepares the team for the upcoming challenges but also strengthens the roots of rugby development at the grassroots level. The commitment to scouting both local and overseas players reflects a growing ambition within the national rugby setup, aiming for success on the international stage.
Overall, the enthusiasm surrounding this young squad and the dedication of their coaching team inspire hope for a strong performance in the upcoming tournaments.
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