The Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team, under the leadership of coach Osea Kolinisau, has embarked on a journey to New Zealand for the Ignite 7s tournament, a critical precursor to their participation in the HSBC SVNS Dubai 7s scheduled for next month. This tournament marks a significant opportunity for the team to refine their skills and dynamics as they prepare to defend their title in Dubai.
The squad comprises 14 players selected from an extended pool, and they are set to face formidable teams including Australia, Japan, and various local clubs in New Zealand. Kolinisau is optimistic about the talents of the squad, particularly the new and youthful players who will have a chance to demonstrate their capabilities against high-caliber opponents.
“We got a few new boys here, so this tournament will be a good chance for them to prove themselves and earn their spot in the team,” Kolinisau mentioned. The coach has emphasized the importance of their warm-up matches against top-tier teams as essential tests leading into Dubai, where they are expected to showcase improved performance after a thorough analysis of last year’s games.
Kolinisau expressed eagerness not only to see the new players take the field but also to evaluate how they manage pressure against strong rivals like New Zealand and Australia. He remarked, “It’s a good opportunity to play warm-up matches against New Zealand and Australia teams, especially before Dubai.” This sentiment echoes the team’s commitment to and focus on improving their game strategy before the prestigious Dubai 7s.
As the defending champions, having triumphed over Spain in last year’s final, Fiji enters this year’s Dubai tournament with high expectations. The competition format this time eliminates quarterfinals, allowing only the top two teams from each pool to advance directly to the semifinals, presenting a unique challenge. Fiji finds itself grouped with South Africa, Argentina, and France, and their performance in New Zealand is viewed as pivotal preparation.
The Dubai 7s will take place from November 29 to December 1, and fans are undoubtedly excited to see how the combination of seasoned experience and emerging talent from the Fiji squad will play out in this competitive international arena. This tournament presents not only a challenge for the team but also an opportunity to revive and inspire national pride in Fijian rugby. As they embark on this journey, the Fijian players aim not just to compete but to reignite the passion that has historically defined their sport.
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