Caleb Muntz, the fly-half for the Fiji Water Flying Fijians, delivered an outstanding performance in the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup final, leading his team to a 41-17 victory over hosts Japan and clinching their sixth consecutive title. The 24-year-old stood out in the final and was named Player of the Tournament due to his remarkable contributions.
Despite having only nine Tests to his name, Muntz showcased remarkable poise throughout the match. His impressive stats included seven successful kicks at goal, 11 carries, and 10 tackles, demonstrating his adaptability and impact on the game. He was instrumental in the team’s late scoring surge, securing the win decisively.
In a post-match interview, Muntz attributed the team’s success to their focus on fitness and their ability to finish games strong. He noted that they had previously struggled to maintain performance in the second half, but their commitment to enhancing fitness levels had made a significant difference.
“In the last couple of years, especially since I’ve joined the team, there’s been a real emphasis on fitness and being able to close out games,” he remarked. “It really showed the results of the hard work we’ve been putting in.”
Muntz also pointed out the challenge of facing a strong Japanese team known for scoring an average of 48 points per game, emphasizing the need for a more structured and cohesive defensive strategy.
“Their backline is quick and skilled. As a Pacific Island team, we’re usually recognized for our physicality, but we knew we had to be more organized in defense,” he explained.
Looking ahead, the Flying Fijians are now preparing for the upcoming Autumn Internationals, where they will face teams like Scotland, Ireland, and Wales in November, starting with their match against Scotland on November 3.