FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne has praised young prop Atu Sokobale after a valuable recommendation from Castres Rugby President Pierre-Yves Revol. In a discussion regarding squad selections, especially following the injury to Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Revol pointed out Sokobale, who is the younger brother of former national sevens player Savenaca Rawaca.
Byrne recognized that Sokobale’s experience in the competitive French league could provide a significant advantage to the team. He commented, “During the conversation, he actually raised Atu’s name, and suddenly that tweaks my interest because you haven’t gone down to that next level of player coming into the French league. So, all of a sudden, he threw Atu’s name at me, so I start looking when he comes off the bench, and I’m like… well he’s playing against the French, he’s coming off the bench in the French league for Cas, so he is getting that sort of experience.”
Sokobale, who also claimed a gold medal in shot put at the Fiji Finals while representing Sigatoka Methodist College, has earned a spot in the newly announced 32-man squad. The Flying Fijians are set to face England in their opening match on September 9 at Twickenham Stadium at 5:40 a.m.
The squad boasts seasoned players such as Pita Gus Sowakula, a former All Black, and Peceli Yato, both of whom are expected to lend their expertise as the Flying Fijians prepare for crucial international fixtures. The combination of emerging talent and experienced players fosters optimism for the team’s future, raising hopes for a strong performance as they aim to enhance their standing in the competitive world of international rugby.