Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne is considering positional adjustments as the team gears up for the 2024 Pacific Nations Cup (PNC). Byrne has included four locks in his 30-member roster, indicating that two of them, Isoa Nasilasila and Mesake Vocevoce, are capable of playing in the number six position.
“We selected four locks, and both Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila have demonstrated their ability to perform at number six. If the opportunity arises, they can be utilized in that position,” Byrne explained.
This selection provides the team with considerable flexibility. The coach also noted the athleticism of the players in the squad.
Half-back Simione Kuruvoli and hooker Zuriel Togiatama will not participate in the PNC due to family commitments. “Togiatama has family matters in Auckland, and Kuruvoli deserves a break after the 2023 Rugby World Cup to spend time with his family,” Byrne added.
With regard to the PNC schedule, which consists of only one home game and several away fixtures, Byrne expressed confidence in the arrangement. “The schedule works in our favor with a match against Samoa on August 23 and a bye the following week. This allows us to recover and engage in solid training before heading to Tonga,” he noted.
Byrne mentioned that following the initial matches, the team will travel to Japan, and all coaches have collaborated to devise a comprehensive plan for the season.
The Flying Fijians have convened in camp in Suva and are set to face Samoa this Friday at 6 PM at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.