The Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s team, led by coach Osea Kolinisau, has embarked on an important journey to New Zealand for the Ignite 7s tournament, serving as a key stepping stone toward the much-anticipated HSBC SVNS Dubai 7s next month.
The squad features 14 players, including several promising newcomers eager to showcase their talents against formidable teams like New Zealand, Australia, and local clubs. Coach Kolinisau emphasized the tournament as a prime opportunity for young players to gain invaluable experience under pressure. He expressed optimism about the newcomers’ contributions, noting their energetic performances and potential to enhance the team’s overall dynamics.
“This tournament will be a good chance for them to prove themselves and earn their place in the team,” Kolinisau remarked, underscoring the significance of the Ignite 7s for refining strategies ahead of the Dubai tournament. The coaching staff has meticulously analyzed past game footage to pinpoint areas for improvement, ensuring the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The Ignite 7s, happening over the weekend, will act as a critical assessment for the squad, enabling players to demonstrate their skills against top-tier competition. “I get to see players that I have not seen a lot take the field, especially the youngsters. It gives me a chance to see them play and evaluate their performance,” he added.
Fiji enters the Dubai 7s as the reigning champions, having defeated Spain 19-5 in last year’s final. This year’s tournament format eliminates quarterfinals, allowing only the top two teams from each pool to advance directly to the semifinals, with Fiji facing tough competitors in South Africa, Argentina, and France.
With anticipation building for both the Ignite 7s and the upcoming Dubai tournament, the Fiji national team aims to convert the experience gained in New Zealand into a successful title defense, inspiring a new generation of rugby talent from Fiji. The team’s focus on unity and the exhilarating competitive spirit promise a bright outlook for their future endeavors.