The Fiji Rugby Union’s director of rugby Koli Sewabu has encouraged the Fijian Drua to embrace unstructured rugby when appropriate, following their recent 28-24 victory over the Chiefs. In comments shared with SUNsports, Sewabu noted the significance of the Drua as Fiji’s first professional rugby team and expressed excitement about their upcoming match against the Brumbies, which he views as instrumental in laying a strong foundation for the future.
Sewabu remarked on the historical roots of Fijian rugby in unstructured play, acknowledging that while more structured game plans have been incorporated over the years to compete with top-tier nations, the essence of Fijian rugby must not be lost. He emphasized the importance of balance in play style, asserting that players should feel empowered to unleash their natural instincts as opportunities arise.
He also highlighted areas of improvement for the Drua, particularly in managing lineouts and mauls, along with defensive structures. Sewabu believes that consistency in performance, combined with exposure to high-level competition, will bolster player confidence and skill development over time.
Moreover, Sewabu stressed the need for a robust professional setup in Fiji, as previously local talents often sought opportunities abroad. He stated that the Drua represents a pivotal opportunity to grow the sport domestically and bridge the gap with international standards. His comments resonate with Fijian rugby’s potential as they navigate challenges and work towards building a solid high-performance team.
This narrative aligns with the optimism expressed by Mark Evans, CEO of the Fijian Drua, regarding their squad’s depth and resilience demonstrated during recent competitions, particularly amid challenges like player unavailability due to injuries or overseas commitments. Both Sewabu and Evans recognize that while achieving success is a process, the commitment to developing local talent within the Drua framework presents a hopeful outlook for the future of Fijian rugby.
In summary, the ongoing efforts to combine unstructured play with structured development reflect a promising trajectory for Fiji Rugby, as it nurtures local talent and fortifies itself against international competition. This strategy not only aims for immediate performance improvements but also seeks to establish a lasting legacy for the sport in Fiji.
Leave a comment