Jeremaia Matana is gearing up to potentially lead the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team once more at the upcoming HSBC SVNS Perth leg, pending the decision of head coach Osea Kolinisau. The 26-year-old, who recently captained the team during the initial events of the 2024/2025 series, expressed his enthusiasm about the possibility of taking on the leadership role again.

Matana reflected on his surprise at being appointed captain for the Dubai and Cape Town tournaments, detailing how the experience has motivated him to elevate his performance. “I never dreamt to be selected captain one day, it was unexpected,” he stated, highlighting his readiness to embrace the challenge again. “I’ll await the final selection for Perth 7s.”

Currently participating in the McDonalds Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament in Sigatoka, Matana believes that competing in this local event will provide crucial preparation for the readiness needed in Perth. With top-tier teams such as New Zealand sides and Australia Sevens Select competing, he is keen to refine his speed and defensive skills during this three-day tournament. “Playing at the Coral Coast 7s will be similar to playing in the series with the teams that are here,” he noted.

The Fiji 7s team is drawn in Pool A alongside New Zealand Sevens Two, Tuva, and Brothers. The final roster for the Perth tournament will be confirmed on Saturday after the concluding match of the Coral Coast event. Matana, who played a significant role in the team’s previous successes—winning silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, gold at the 2022 Rugby Sevens World Cup, and silver at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games—aims to carry that momentum into the next competition.

This upcoming tournament serves as an exciting opportunity for the Fiji 7s team to further demonstrate their capabilities on the international stage, backed by Matana’s leadership and experience. With a strong sense of purpose and an eagerness to defend their home turf, the Fiji team looks forward to making a significant impact in Perth.

In essence, the Fiji men’s rugby 7s team’s journey reflects a blend of ambition, growth, and resilience, offering fans hope for a successful run ahead.