The 31st R.C. Manubhai Nataleira Sevens tournament is poised to elevate grassroots rugby across the country, according to tournament director Solo Finau. During the official launch at the R.C. Manubhai Suva branch store, Finau emphasized the need for a strategic approach to enhance player performance and provide greater benefits to players and coaches alike.
In a bid to innovate traditional sevens rugby, Finau has introduced a unique tournament format that includes bonus points—an advancement intended to diversify scoring strategies and make games more exciting. One notable bonus point opportunity arises when a player scores a try under the posts and successfully converts it. A second bonus point will be awarded to any team that achieves a converted try, a converted penalty, and a drop goal within just seven minutes of the match.
Finau explained that these changes aim to encourage players and coaches to explore a wider range of scoring methods, citing the success of renowned rugby nations like South Africa, England, and Australia, who have clinched World Cups through strategic drop goals. He believes that fostering a competitive mindset among teams will enhance the overall standard of play, as teams will be compelled to improve their defensive strategies to counteract scoring attempts.
The tournament not only aims to introduce new tactical ideas but also seeks to cultivate a fresh culture within the national sevens team. By establishing these formats during the Nataleira Sevens, teams can adapt and practice these strategies in future competitions.
R.C. Manubhai’s regional manager, Atish Singh, expressed gratitude for their partnership with the Nataleira Sevens, noting the tournament’s steady growth and anticipations for further expansion in the coming years.
The tournament is scheduled to take place at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori from December 19 to 21.
Overall, this initiative represents a significant shift towards innovation in grassroots rugby, offering aspiring athletes valuable opportunities to develop their skills in a competitive environment. It holds promise for future national team success as players adapt to these exciting new strategies.
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