Isikeli Basiyalo, a promising young rugby player from Fiji, has officially joined the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team for the highly anticipated Hong Kong 7s tournament. Head coach Osea Kolinisau announced Basiyalo’s selection, marking an exciting milestone for the 21-year-old development player, who enters the squad alongside fellow Drua player, Aisea Nawai.
Basiyalo, who plays as a forward, received the news of his call-up from Drua head coach Glen Jackson, who conveyed Kolinisau’s interest in bringing him into the 7s setup. The young athlete expressed his delight, stating, “When I was called, I didn’t believe it at first, but I was actually happy and keen. I’ve always wanted to try sevens, so I’m glad to be here and learning a lot.”
In addition to Basiyalo and Nawai, the squad will also feature returning players Manueli Maisamoa and Alusio Vakadranu, totaling 13 members for the upcoming tournament. The team is further strengthened by the presence of standout players like Jeremaia Matana, Kavekini Tanivanuakula, and Apete Narogo, who recently shined at the Fiji Bitter Nahehevia 7s.
As the squad gears up for the Hong Kong 7s, scheduled for March 28-30, head coach Kolinisau highlighted the importance of team dynamics and performance during training, suggesting that the younger players’ integration into the team will be key to their success.
This development reflects a positive trend for Fijian rugby, showcasing the nation’s dedication to nurturing new talent while maintaining a strong veteran presence. Fans are optimistic about the contributions of players like Basiyalo and Nawai as they aim to enrich Fiji’s storied rugby legacy on the global stage. With the blend of emerging talent and seasoned players, the team’s prospects for the tournament look promising, hinting at an exciting competition ahead.
Leave a comment