Performance was the overriding factor behind the selection of the FIJI Water Flying Fijians squad for the inaugural Rugby Nations Championship, says interim head coach Senirusi Seruvakula.
The national coach yesterday defended the inclusion of experienced campaigners Levani Botia, Peceli Yato, Sam Matavesi and Tevita Ratuva, saying all of them earned their places through consistent performances at club level.
Speaking after naming his final 32-member squad, Seruvakula said age alone did not guarantee selection.
“The number one focus for selecting the team is performance and how they have been performing over the weekends,” he said.
Seruvakula revealed that Fiji Rugby’s management team had maintained close contact with players based in Europe, monitoring their performances, injuries and workload throughout the season.
“We monitor all our players. We have our strength and conditioning staff in Europe who provide feedback every week. We also involve our medical department to monitor injuries, and player loads before selections are made.”
Seruvakula said the veterans selected continued to prove their value at the highest level of the game.
“They are veteran players, but they meet the criteria. They still play top-level rugby, they are getting big minutes and they are injury free. They also fit the coaching philosophy that we want to implement.”
While several talented players missed out on selection, Seruvakula said the door remained open.
“There is a lot of talent available. Some players missed out because of inconsistent performances and some because of injuries.”
The players omitted from the final squad have been placed on standby and remain available should injuries occur during the tournament.
Tevita Ikanivere will captain the squad with Temo Mayanavanua and Frank Lomani as vice-captains.
The Flying Fijians will assemble in Cardiff on June 25 after local players and management depart Fiji on June 24.
The side will have several days together before beginning preparations for the Rugby Nations Championship, which kicks off in July.
Flying Fijian 32-member squad.
Hookers: Tevita Ikanivere (C), Sam Matavesi, Zuriel Togiatama
Props: Eroni Mawi, Atunaisa Sokobale, Peni Ravai, Luke Tagi, Tim Hoyt
Locks: Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua (VC), Tevita Ratuva
Loose Forwards: Lekima Tagitagivalu, Kitione Salawa, Elia Canakaivata, Levani Botia Pita-Gus Sowakula, Peceli Yato
Half Backs: Frank Lomani (VC), Simione Kuruvoli, Sam Wye
Fist Five Eights: Caleb Muntz, Isaia Armstrong-Ravula
Midfielders: Josua Tuisova, Filimoni Botitu, Salestino Ravutaumada, Semi Radradra
Outside Backs: Jiuta Wainiqolo, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Vinaya Habosi, Salesi Raiyasi, Vuate Karawalevu
