Caleb Muntz, the fly-half for the Fiji Water Flying Fijians, delivered a remarkable performance in the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup final, leading his team to a 41-17 victory over Japan and earning their sixth consecutive title. At just 24 years old, Muntz was instrumental in the win and was named Player of the Tournament for his outstanding contributions.
Despite his limited experience with only nine Tests, Muntz showcased impressive composure throughout the match. His performance featured seven successful kicks at goal, 11 carries, and 10 tackles, highlighting his versatility and impact on the field. He played a vital role in his team’s late scoring drive, solidifying their dominant win.
In a post-match interview with RugbyPass media, Muntz emphasized the team’s commitment to fitness and their ability to finish strong as essential components of their triumph. He noted that in the past, the team struggled to maintain performance in the second half, but their focus on enhancing fitness has made a significant difference.
“In recent years, especially since I joined the team, we’ve put a strong emphasis on fitness and closing out games,” he explained. “The hard work we’ve put in over the past couple of years is paying off.”
Muntz pointed out the challenges posed by Japan’s strong offensive, which had been averaging 48 points per game. Fiji had to adjust their defensive strategies to effectively counter their opponents.
“Their backline is quick and skilled. As a Pacific Island team, we’re recognized for our physicality, but we understood that we needed a more structured and cohesive defense,” he stated.
Looking ahead, the Flying Fijians are preparing for the upcoming Autumn Internationals, where they will take on Scotland, Ireland, and Wales in November, beginning with their first match against Scotland on November 3.