The Fiji Water Flying Fijians squad is intensifying their preparations for the upcoming match against the All Blacks at Snap Dragon Stadium in San Diego, United States, next Saturday, July 20.
Head coach Mick Byrne confirmed yesterday that the players are free from any significant injuries. “All the players trained yesterday (Monday). There were a few minor niggles, which is expected after a physical game against Georgia last week,” Byrne said.
“Caleb Muntz is recovering well but hasn’t rejoined training yet. We’re expecting him to participate later in the week.”
Byrne hopes to maintain the current squad for the Pacific Nations Cup in August. “The growth in the Flying Fijians over the last couple of years with the inclusion of the Fijian Drua team has created a more professional depth than what was there originally,” he noted.
“The depth of the squad has improved to the point where we’re focused on our own preparation. We need to better support our players as we go against some well-resourced teams,” Byrne added.
He emphasized the importance of a solid defense against the All Blacks. “We’ll need to limit their ball use as they’ll challenge us with the speed of the game they want to play. We’ll prepare accordingly over the next two weeks.”
The match is part of New Zealand Rugby’s strategy to enhance the All Blacks brand in America and elevate the sport’s profile in the US. The US will host the 2031 and 2033 iterations of the men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups. New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson told Forbes last month that hosting back-to-back World Cups in the US “has provided a real north star for the sport.”
Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj