‘A dream come true’
These were the words of young Philip Baselala while sharing his experience about his debut for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians against the Australian Wallabies on Sunday.
While Fiji lost 18-21, the match was still very special for the nippy Kadavu scrumhalf who prior to the match was in tears when his name was called out by head coach Mick Byrne during the team’s jersey presentation.
“It’s a dream come true playing alongside some big names from France. It’s a mixed feeling,” he said in an interview with this newspaper.
The day was made even more memorable with the presence of his main supporter and mum, Elenoa Baselala.
“It was really special because I thought none of my relatives would come and watch but mum came and surprised me, so it was a really special moment for me.”
A few words of encouragement from Byrne shook off any nerve he had before taking the field.
“I was really excited, and I only had one thing in mind which was to go out there and do the job, deliver good balls and just stay in the moment. He (Byrne) just said to go out there and just be yourself, enjoy the game. It was an exciting moment for me, having the big boys there, advising me to just be myself on the field,” the former Suva Grammar School student added.
Not only did Baselala get to play alongside his idols but also with four other players in Jiuta Wainiqolo, Sireli Maqala, Simione Kuruvoli and Viliame Mata who, just like him, came through the Nabua Rugby club earlier on in their career.
“I’m really thankful for the club as well, Nabua, for opening the door for us to start our rugby career from there. It’s a very special moment for us having local club mates, donning the white jersey and representing Fiji,” Baselala said.
He also realised how different the intensity of Test rugby was compared to Super Rugby.
