With the Rugby World Cup just over six weeks away, the Fijiana 15s team, under the guidance of head coach Ioan Cunningham, is intensifying its training efforts. Currently in camp, the squad is prepping for a significant test match against the United States, which is a vital component of their strategy as they gear up for the prestigious tournament.
Cunningham reported that the training environment has been marked by healthy competition, particularly with the addition of several players from the Fijiana sevens team, who bring additional depth and experience. He expressed excitement about the upcoming challenge against the USA, emphasizing not just the importance of winning, but also of fine-tuning their game in key areas.
“We’ve been training together for nearly two weeks and the competition within the group is excellent. The inclusion of sevens players has certainly strengthened our training sessions. We are looking forward to the challenge posed by the USA as we prepare for the World Cup, which is just around 45 days away,” Cunningham stated.
The head coach highlighted the necessity of maintaining Fiji’s renowned fast-paced style of play while pushing for improved execution on the field. “We want to spread the ball wide and play at a high tempo with accuracy, especially at the breakdown,” he added.
The match against the USA is scheduled for July 19 in Washington D.C., providing a crucial opportunity for the Fijiana XV to assess their readiness before facing some of the toughest international competition later in the year.
Previous training camps have shown promise, particularly as the squad seeks to blend seasoned players with new talent. Earlier this year, the Fijiana team successfully defended their title at the Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship, showcasing their resilience and growth. This ongoing development and the integration of fresh talent into the squad highlight the positive trajectory of women’s rugby in Fiji.
As excitement builds towards the Rugby World Cup, the anticipation for the Fijiana XV’s performance continues to inspire both players and fans alike, reinforcing a collective hope for a strong showing on the global stage. The commitment to enhancing both individual and team performance reflects the broader ambition for women’s rugby in the region, and there is a shared hope within the community that these athletes will shine as they represent Fiji with pride.
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