Former Fiji men’s 7s captain Isake Katonibau is acutely aware of the fierce competition that awaits at the Cape Town 7s tournament, renowned for its intensity and high stakes. As the Fiji Airways men’s 7s team gears up for this key stop on the HSBC SVNS circuit, Katonibau highlights the critical need for mental preparedness and effective recovery among players.
“Cape Town is going to be difficult; now it’s just about getting the recovery and it’s all mental,” Katonibau remarked in a recent interview. He has observed that teams that prioritize recovery tend to deliver superior performances both mentally and physically throughout the tournament.
This weekend’s competition will serve as a barometer for the team’s adjustments and strategies, which have been the focus of head coach Osea Kolinisau following their recent appearances in Dubai. According to Katonibau, the team’s emphasis on mental readiness and recovery is paramount for achieving success in the matches ahead.
Fiji has a celebrated legacy in the Cape Town 7s, having won the inaugural tournament in the 1999/2000 season and last securing the title in 2018/19 under coach Gareth Baber, defeating the United States 29-15. In the last couple of seasons, specifically 2023/24 and 2024/25, Fiji returned from South Africa with plate honors, reaffirming their competitive stature.
The Fiji 7s team will commence their campaign against the reigning champions South Africa on Saturday at 10:44 PM. Following this match, they will face off against Great Britain and New Zealand on Sunday at 1:38 AM and 5:19 AM, respectively. As they embark on this challenging journey, there is a strong hope that their preparation will translate into a successful outing in Cape Town.