The 31st R.C. Manubhai Nataleira Sevens tournament is poised to make a significant impact on grassroots rugby in the country. This was emphasized by tournament director Solo Finau at the official launch held at the R.C. Manubhai Suva branch store.
Finau highlighted the necessity of reevaluating and enhancing the way the sport is played. “We need to strategize to better the way that the players play the game,” he stated. To achieve this, he aims to introduce innovative concepts that will benefit players and coaches alike.
A notable change in this year’s tournament is the introduction of bonus points, marking a first in sevens rugby competitions. Finau explained that players can earn a bonus point by scoring a try underneath the goal posts, provided that the try is successfully converted. Additionally, a second bonus point is awarded to teams that score a converted try, a converted penalty, and a drop goal all within seven minutes of a match.
“The whole idea is to get the players and the coaches into the frame of mind that there are other ways to get points,” Finau remarked, referencing how crucial drop goals have been in matches that determined World Cup victors for teams like South Africa, England, and Australia.
The tournament aims to foster a new culture among players for the national sevens team. “If every team strives to score under the posts, the competition will heighten as they fortify their defenses to prevent such scores,” he added. This increased competition is expected to elevate the quality of play overall.
Finau emphasized that the tournament serves to teach teams this scoring format, enabling them to apply it in future competitions. R.C. Manubhai’s regional manager, Atish Singh, expressed the company’s appreciation for being part of the Nataleira Sevens, noting that the tournament continues to grow annually, with hopes for even greater expansion next year.
The tournament will take place at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori from December 19 to 21, setting the stage for an exciting event that promises to enhance the rugby landscape in the country.
This initiative not only brings innovative practices to sevens rugby but also motivates players to explore various scoring strategies, potentially leading to a more dynamic and competitive atmosphere on the field.
Summary: The 31st R.C. Manubhai Nataleira Sevens tournament is introducing innovative changes, such as bonus points, to enhance grassroots rugby in the country. Director Solo Finau emphasizes the need for new strategies to cultivate a competitive spirit, with the goal of improving player skills and promoting diverse scoring methods. The tournament will take place from December 19 to 21, showcasing the growing popularity of the event.
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