Former All Blacks back rower Pita Gus Sowakula is a target for Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne as preparations ramp up for the July Test against the Wallabies. Byrne, currently in Europe meeting with players based in the Northern Hemisphere, has already had discussions with Sowakula and fellow forward Peceli Yato during his recent visit to Clermont.
Byrne expressed his enthusiasm about Sowakula, stating, “We have met up and we have had discussions, and Pita Gus is definitely one of the players on our list.” However, he was clear that selection will depend on Sowakula’s current performance, rather than his past accolades with the All Blacks. “That may have been three years ago,” Byrne noted, emphasizing the importance of assessing players based on their present form.
Sowakula is eligible to represent Fiji starting July 9, which aligns with the national team’s schedule. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming tests, Byrne’s approach looks promising. The introduction of players with international experience like Sowakula could inject valuable skills into the team.
This potential roster change is reflective of a broader trend in rugby where athletes are seeking to represent their roots, aligned with evolving eligibility rules. Such inclusivity is essential to improving the competitiveness of the sport and could play a vital role in the future success of the Flying Fijians as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of crucial international matches.
The anticipation surrounding these selections and the ongoing evaluation of talent suggest a bright future for Fijian rugby, as they continue working towards enhancing their global standing.
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