The Flying Fijians recently experienced a difficult 17-57 defeat against Scotland, but Mark Evans, CEO of Fijian Drua, remains optimistic about the future of Fijian rugby. Despite the challenges faced — including the absence of ten European-based players and five injured Drua players — Evans believes the match showcased the squad’s depth and resilience.
He praised the performance of the local-based team, emphasizing that even with key athletes missing, such as Masi, Selestino, Mesake Doge, and Peni Ravai, the squad demonstrated considerable strength. Evans noted, “At last we’ve got some depth. This is how serious international teams operate,” underscoring the positive progression in Fijian rugby.
As they move forward, the focus now lies on rehabilitating injured players before entering the preseason. Evans expressed that the current priority is to develop younger talent, particularly through the Drua’s 7s program, allowing coaches to provide essential guidance to emerging players and those recovering from injuries.
Looking ahead, Evans is excited about the potential return of the Flying Fijians in December and highlighted the importance of establishing a robust foundation for ongoing growth and success. With a commitment to strong leadership and a clear developmental strategy, the Fijian Drua appears set to advance and flourish in the forthcoming seasons.
In summary, while facing recent challenges, the commitment to player development and depth within the squad offers a promising outlook for the future of Fijian rugby. The team’s focus on nurturing young talent and rehabilitating injured players reflects a proactive approach that could lead to greater achievements on the international stage.
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