Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne has emphasized that the character and physical conditioning of players will be more crucial than sheer talent when it comes to selecting the squad for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. In a recent statement, Byrne highlighted that selectors will focus on identifying mentally resilient and disciplined players who can withstand the rigors of an extensive World Cup tournament.
Byrne believes that Fiji already possesses the necessary rugby skills; however, the key will be to find players who can sustain performance over the demanding seven-week campaign. “When you go away on a seven-week tour, you need to ensure you have exceptional individuals with you. Those are the qualities we’ll be looking for… We know that the rugby talent is not the issue,” he stated.
The coach emphasized that the final selection will prioritize fitness and team cohesion over pure skill. With world-class talent across various positions, Byrne pointed out that the defining attribute for the 2027 squad will be the players’ ability to remain connected, committed, and supportive of their teammates throughout the tournament.
Byrne’s approach signals an optimistic outlook for Fiji’s prospects in international rugby, as building a robust, unified, and mentally strong team could lead them to greater success on the world stage. As their rugby journey continues, the emphasis on character and conditioning could serve as a transformative strategy for their future endeavors in the sport.