Naitasiri veteran fly-half Etonia Rokotuisawa says team bonding and communication will be the main focus for the Skipper Select side as they prepare to face the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua on February 6 at Churchill Park.
Rokotuisawa, who brings vast provincial experience into the Skipper Select setup, said the team is made up of players from different unions, making bonding a key priority in camp this week.
“One thing we really need to work on is our bonding and relationships in the team,” Rokotuisawa said.
“We come from different teams and if the bonding is good, then communication on the field will also be good. Communication is very important for us during the game.”
The experienced fly-half also acknowledged the Fiji Rugby Union for giving provincial players the opportunity to be part of the Skipper Select team and test themselves against the country’s top professional side.
“I want to thank FRU for looking at provincial teams and players to form this team and play against the Drua,” he said.
“This is a good challenge for us and if anything happens, it also gives Drua officials the chance to see us provincial players.”
Rokotuisawa believes the match will be an important build-up for the Skipper Cup season while also providing valuable exposure for local talent.
He has also urged rugby fans to turn up in numbers and support both teams when they take the field at Churchill Park.
“I encourage the fans to come out in numbers and support both teams, the Skipper Select side and the Drua,” he added.
The Skipper Select–Drua clash is expected to attract strong interest as provincial players get a rare opportunity to measure themselves against Super Rugby Pacific opposition.
