The ambitious vision for the future of Fiji Rugby is taking shape with plans for more Test matches for the Flying Fijians and their anticipated inclusion in the 2026 Nations Cup. Head coach Mick Byrne shared these insights after assessing the team’s performance during this year’s Test matches.
The Flying Fijians achieved a commendable success rate of seven out of ten in their Tests this year. Byrne emphasized that competing in more matches against top-tier teams is essential for narrowing the gap between Fiji and the Tier 1 rugby nations.
Reflecting on their encounters with formidable opponents such as the All Blacks, Ireland, and Scotland, Byrne acknowledged the challenges faced against these elite teams. “It was a battle for us when we came up against those Tier 1 teams, and that’s the growth of our side—being able to compete at that level,” he explained.
While the team celebrated victories in the Pacific Nations Cup and against Georgia, the matches against these higher-ranked teams highlighted areas needing improvement. Byrne noted that the experience was invaluable in preparing for the new season. “It really showed where we are lacking in our intensity of our games,” he remarked, adding that this knowledge will guide their strategic improvements moving forward.
Looking ahead, Byrne is eager for the upcoming year, which includes the Pacific Nations Cup and upcoming November tour matches. Fiji and Japan are anticipated to join six Southern Hemisphere teams in the newly-formed 2026 Nations Cup, with London emerging as a strong candidate to host the event.
This hopeful outlook not only showcases Fiji’s commitment to rugby excellence but also sets the stage for exciting growth and development for the Flying Fijians on the international stage. The increased exposure to high-level competition could be a turning point for the team as they aim to elevate their performance and achieve remarkable success in future tournaments.
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