A new chapter is unfolding for the Devo Babas rugby team as they gear up for the 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s with a revitalized roster. Having demonstrated commendable skills last year by reaching the quarter-finals — where they narrowly fell to the Fiji 7s team with a score of 12-19 — the team is now looking to build on that foundation.
With a significant transformation underway, the Devo Babas are introducing 12 fresh faces to their lineup. This change comes as several players have transitioned to other teams or taken on different commitments, prompting the need for new talent. Team manager Isoa Natui highlighted that only two members from last year’s squad remain, with most of the newly recruited players embarking on their first Coral Coast 7s experience.
Natui addressed some of the challenges faced by the previous squad, which led to this overhaul. “We had a few disciplinary issues with our old players, which has shifted the dynamics of the team,” he stated. The new team is made up of young athletes from various clubs, including representatives from Nadroga and Yasawa, all of whom have been training rigorously over the past two weeks.
Despite the potential hurdles of having a predominantly new team, the Devo Babas are optimistic about their chances at the prestigious tournament. “As we all know, this is the biggest 7s tournament in Fiji. It will be a tough encounter,” Natui remarked. “Our goal is to perform our best and we have faith in the talent of our team.”
The Devo Babas are committed to supporting their former teammates who have moved on, and they wish them well in their new endeavors. They also express gratitude for the ongoing support from the players’ parents and the local community, which has played a significant role in their preparations.
With a fresh outlook and the determination to succeed, the Devo Babas are poised to make a significant impact at this year’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s, providing an exciting opportunity for young players to shine on an esteemed platform. Their commitment to teamwork and preparation underscores their desire to rise to the occasion and represent their team and community with pride.