The upcoming 31st R.C. Manubhai Nataleira Sevens tournament is poised to significantly enhance grassroots rugby in the nation. Tournament director Solo Finau emphasized this transformative potential during the official launch event held at the R.C. Manubhai Suva branch store.
Finau, a former senior administrator at the Fiji Rugby Union, underscored the need for new strategies to improve player performance. He stated, “We need to strategize to better the way that the players play the game,” indicating a shift towards innovative approaches rather than sticking to traditional methods.
One of the exciting changes Finau is introducing is the inclusion of bonus points in this year’s sevens tournament, marking it as the first of its kind in the format. There are two types of bonus points. The first is awarded when a player scores a try under the goalposts, but the conversion must also be successful. The second bonus point comes into play when a team manages to score a converted try, a converted penalty, and a drop goal within a seven-minute window.
Finau believes that these new point-scoring strategies will encourage players and coaches to consider diverse tactics in their game. He pointed out the historical significance of drop goals in crucial matches won by teams such as South Africa, England, and Australia. His vision is to cultivate a new culture among players that emphasizes varied scoring methods.
He expressed optimism that this tournament format would help develop a stronger base for the national sevens team in the future. He explained that if all teams are motivated to score under the posts, it would compel opposing teams to enhance their defensive strategies, ultimately raising the overall level of competition in each match.
R.C. Manubhai regional manager Atish Singh also expressed the company’s pride in supporting the Nataleira Sevens, noting the tournament’s growth each year and the potential for further expansion in the future. The event is scheduled to commence at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori from December 19 to 21.
This initiative not only highlights innovative changes within the sport but also aims to inspire future generations of rugby players, enhancing the competitive spirit and chemistry of the game at the grassroots level. As we look forward to the tournament, there is a palpable sense of excitement for the possibilities it may bring.
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