Waisea Nayacalevu, despite bringing forward claims of unpaid bonuses and corruption related to Rugby House, has been included in the Flying Fijians squad for their upcoming European tour. Along with Nayacalevu, senior players such as Semi Radradra, Albert Tuisue, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Samuel Matavesi, and Meli Derenalagi, who have supported Nayacalevu’s allegations, have also been named.
Nayacalevu will share the role of co-captain with Tevita Ikanivere. Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne emphasized that these selections are unrelated to the ongoing controversy. “It has nothing to do with team selection. I’ll pick the best players to play for the country in the tour,” Byrne stated.
Peter Mazey, the interim chairman of the Fiji Rugby Union Trustees, confirmed that the final selection authority rests with the head coach. “We (interim Trustees) have no say in it,” Mazey remarked.
Josua Tuisova, a winger from Racing 92, is also making a return to the squad. Coach Byrne highlighted the significance of the tour, stating that the team will face Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Spain. He anticipates several challenges, particularly with respect to the climate, but noted that conditions are relatively mild.
The selection process excluded Iosefo Masi due to injury, a loss that Byrne acknowledged, mentioning that Masi is currently in rehabilitation after a rigorous schedule that included participation in all Super Rugby matches and the Olympic Games.
While Byrne preserved the core of the team from the previous tournament, he introduced players like Sireli Maqala, Jiuta Wainiqolo, and Saimoni Uluinakauvadra. Maqala’s selection at full-back is a strategic move, as he has previously played in that position, while Vuate Karawalevu remains versatile enough to switch between midfield and full-back.
Byrne also pointed out the squad’s strength lies in its players’ ability to adapt to various roles. He indicated that following a short break after the Pacific Nations Cup, it’s time to commence training for the upcoming tour with a focus on team chemistry. Furthermore, he mentioned the importance of integrating younger players to enhance the team’s future prospects.
The Flying Fijians are scheduled to take on Scotland at Murrayfield on November 2, followed by a match against Wales in Cardiff on November 10, Spain on November 17, and concluding the tour with a game against Ireland in Dublin on November 23.