Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne has emphasized that the new 24-team format for the Rugby World Cup will not alter Fiji’s approach as they prepare for the 2027 tournament. With the introduction of one fewer pool match and a new knockout stage featuring a round of 16, Byrne believes that the key to success lies in thorough preparation well in advance of the tournament’s commencement.
Byrne pointed out that with only three pool matches instead of the usual four, the priority for Fiji will be to navigate through these early games effectively and gear up for the round of 16 knockout stage. He stressed the importance of providing players with opportunities to experience high-stakes rugby leading up to the tournament, which can better prepare them for the intense competition ahead.
The coach indicated that the Flying Fijians are focusing on securing quality warm-up matches that can offer a comparable level of intensity to the pre-tournament preparations undertaken by top-tier teams such as France and England ahead of the 2023 World Cup. This strategy is designed to ensure that Fiji enters the tournament poised for success and capable of swiftly transitioning from pool matches into the intensity of knockout rugby as they progress through the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and ultimately, the final stage of the competition.
Byrne’s commitment to building a competitive team underscores a hopeful outlook for the Flying Fijians as they aim to leave a significant mark in the upcoming World Cup. With careful planning and robust preparation, Fiji’s rugby team is poised to make a strong impact on the world stage.
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