National Under-20 coach Senirusi Seruvakula is set to announce the final 30-member squad in the last week of January as the team gears up for two significant tournaments in New Zealand scheduled for March: the Oceania Championship and the Super U20 competition.
Seruvakula noted that many members of the extended squad were selected based on their performances in last year’s Vodafone Deans trophy competition. He mentioned that there has been considerable interest from overseas-based players, some of whom have already begun training with the squad.
“The focus for this team is clearly on these two tournaments,” Seruvakula stated. “We will represent the national U20 side in the Oceania tournament and then represent the Drua U20 in the Super Rugby U20 competition.”
The Oceania tournament will feature teams from Tonga, Samoa, and Moana Pasifika, providing a robust level of competition. The team is scheduled to leave for New Zealand in the last week of February. After completing the Oceania tournament in the first week of March, players will take a short three-day rest before entering the second tournament, which will span approximately one and a half weeks.
To finalize the squad, Seruvakula and his coaching staff will conduct open trials in Duva, Sigatoka, and Nadi on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, respectively.
This commitment to scouting talent and preparing for international competition is a positive indication of the team’s dedication to developing the sport and nurturing young athletes. The participation of overseas players may also enhance the overall quality and competitiveness of the squad, building a promising future for Fijian rugby.
In summary, the establishment of a focused training regime and open trials reflects a strategic approach to selection and preparation, signaling an exciting time for Fiji’s upcoming rugby talent.
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