Eleven overseas players have been selected to join the national side in preparation for the upcoming Oceania under-20 Championship in Sigatoka.
Head coach Senirusi Seruvakula has highlighted the importance of these players.
From the 11 players, six are coming from Australia, three from New Zealand, and one each from the USA and France.
Seruvakula emphasised the experience and competition these players have gained playing club rugby in their respective countries, compared to the limited exposure in Fiji through the annual Deans trophy.
The coaching panel was particularly impressed with the skill level of these players during the Super Rugby U20s tournament in New Zealand.
“These boys have been playing alot of more club rugby and have more competitions amongst schools in both Australia and New Zealand and in the USA and France.
“I’ve been really impressed with their games which is why they have been included.” said Seruvakula.
“In Fiji, we only have one and that’s the annnual Deans trophy which is not enough to prep our boys for the skills that these overseas teams come with.
“That was one thing that stood out for me and the coaching panel when we were in New Zealand for the Super Rugby U20s tournament.”
The overseas-based players include Charlie Tagicakibau, Mosese Ravula, Vaimoe Koroi, Apenisa Naevo, Noa Rauluni, Thomas Setaia, Adam Khan, Meli Tueli, Bogi Kikau, Vilimone Bainibure, and Iliesa Baravilala.
They will join the squad next week. The championship is planned to start from May 26 to June 11 at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
