FIJI Water Flying Fijians utility back Vilimoni Botitu made a strong statement yesterday with a clinical performance at inside centre for his Castres club, despite their 15-33 defeat against Stade Français.
With Josua Tuisova currently the incumbent inside centre for the Flying Fijians, Botitu’s performance highlighted the Olympic gold medallist’s playmaking and distribution prowess while wearing the number 12 jersey.
Botitu’s masterful game management stood out in an otherwise disappointing display from Castres.
A stunning solo try in the 58th minute finally got him on the scoreboard after two earlier tries were ruled out.
Despite his team’s subpar performance, Botitu was a consistent threat, making several line breaks and showcasing elite running lines and distribution skills.
His superior rugby IQ is arguably his greatest asset, with his anticipation, timing, and overall game management setting him apart from his rivals and earning him recognition as one of the best centres in the Top 14.
Botitu’s wide array of skills and X-factor offers Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne a new dimension in attack, which many local pundits believe best suits the Fijian attacking flair.
His playmaking ability provides the Flying Fijians with numerous attacking options, contrasting with Tuisova’s more one-dimensional crash-ball approach.
With elite wingers such as Juita Wainiqolo, Selestino Ravutaumada, and Kalaveti Ravouvou, Botitu’s creativity at inside centre could be the spark the team needs to unleash these talented finishers.
Furthermore, his consistent game time alongside Vuate Karawalevu is another option Byrne should consider, as the pair are developing into a dynamic and ruthless midfield combination that could translate and excel at the international level.
Last season, the combination of Tuisova and Ravouvou was exposed and failed to fire against northern rugby powerhouses England and France. With the inaugural Nations Championship approaching, a Botitu and Karawalevu midfield pairing presents an exciting prospect for Byrne to explore.
