The Fiji Water Flying Fijians are gearing up for an intense showdown against fifth-ranked France as part of the Autumn International Series, scheduled for this Sunday at 8:10 AM in Bordeaux. With a history of competition, France leads the head-to-head record with ten wins against Fiji’s single victory in their prior eleven encounters.
Both teams are entering this match after recent defeats, with Fiji losing to England 18-38 and France being edged out by South Africa 17-32. Coach Mick Byrne recognizes that discipline will be crucial for Fiji’s performance, especially after the team received two yellow cards in the game against England, which adversely affected their strategy and gameplay.
Byrne remains supportive of players who have not made the squad selection, encouraging them to stay perseverant as the coaching staff continues to evaluate the team based on game plans and player compatibility. “Some players might think they’re not getting a look in, but there’s always a chance. Player selection can be fluid based on how we want to play,” he remarked, highlighting the dynamic nature of team selection.
As Fiji’s preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup continue, Byrne is committed to assessing additional players to strengthen the team’s depth. “While we aim to win every Test match leading up to 2025, we also need to build a squad that can compete effectively in 2027,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of balancing current performance with future potential.
This match against France not only challenges the Fijians but also provides an invaluable opportunity for them to showcase their development and competitive spirit on a prominent international stage. It has the potential to inspire hope and unity among their fans and contribute to the growth of rugby in Fiji.
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