The Fiji Airways Fiji 7s team is ramping up preparations for the Vancouver 7s with a strong emphasis on physicality and breakdown work.
With key players returning from injury and new faces stepping up, the squad is determined to sharpen its game before the tournament.
Head coach Osea Kolinisau is pleased to have Josese Batirerega and Ilikimi Torosi back to full fitness.
Their experience in 15s rugby brings a level of physicality that will be crucial in tight contests.
“They bring a certain type of physicality 15s like because they both play 15s rugby,” he said.
One of the biggest positives in camp has been playmaker Waisea Nacuqu, who is looking fitter and providing leadership among the younger players.
“It’s promising to see him around the boys sharing his experience and there is a lot of calm when he is around the young players,” said Kolinisau.
New recruit Mosese Naura is also making an impression in training.
His competitive nature and willingness to learn have caught the attention of the coaching staff.
“It’s good to see him around camp asking questions to the senior players and them trying to get him up to speed on how we do things,” Kolinisau noted.
On the injury front, Viwa Naduvalo who had been dealing with a swollen neck has been cleared to play, along with Jerry Matana.
However, Lasaro Bogisa’s rib contusion and Iliavi Masori’s hamstring strain are undergoing return to rugby protocols and are expected to resume training soon.
A major focus for the team is improving their breakdown work.
Meanwhile the tournament will kick off from February 21-23.
