Isikeli Basiyalo, a promising utility player, has been selected for the Fiji 7s extended squad as announced by Head Coach Osea Kolinisau. This exciting development marks a significant milestone in the young athlete’s career, reflecting Fiji’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent in rugby.
The 21-year-old forward received the call-up from Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson, who informed him of his new responsibilities with the national team, particularly as preparations ramp up for the highly anticipated Hong Kong 7s scheduled for March 28-30. Basiyalo joins fellow young talent Aisea Nawai and Apete Narogo in the extended squad, highlighting a strategic infusion of new energy and skills into the team.
Expressing his joy about the opportunity, Basiyalo remarked, “When I was called, I didn’t believe it at first, but I was happy and keen. Playing 7s is a whole different challenge, and the speed of the game is much higher than what I’m used to.” He sees this as a chance to learn and improve his game, which he plans to bring back to his team, the Drua.
Kolinisau, while optimistic about the capabilities of new players, emphasizes that selection for the final squad is not guaranteed. He has underscored the importance of these players fitting well within the team dynamics, with a focus on competitive performance during the lead-up to the tournament.
The inclusion of Basiyalo and his teammates comes at a time when Fiji’s rugby aspirations are at a peak, especially with their recent success on the international stage. Fans and followers of Fijian rugby can look forward to seeing how these promising players will perform under pressure, which could bode well for the team’s prospects in the upcoming competitions.
Overall, this development is a heartening sign for both the players and supporters, emphasizing the optimistic direction in which Fijian rugby is heading. As young talents like Basiyalo, Nawai, and Narogo prepare for this new chapter, there is a sense of hope and excitement for what lies ahead in the competitive world of international sevens rugby.
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