Fiji 7s men’s coach Ben Gollings has included 14 new players in his extended squad after the Fun Flavour Super Sevens Series over the weekend in Sigatoka.
Also included in the extended squad is 2016 Olympian Semi Kunatani alongside Fiji 7s skipper Josua Vakurinabili, Seremaia ‘Jerry’ Tuwai and Waisea Nacuqu.
Also named are Tevita Daugunu, Daniele Yaya, Kaminieli Rasaku, Manueli Maisamoa, Iowane Teba, Filipe Sauturaga, Elia Canakaivata and Joseva Talacolo, who were part of the World Rugby Sevens Series last year.
The new faces are Ratu Filise 7s team captain Wame Ratuva, Jope Tikomailepanoni, Jeremaia Matana, Tita Patterson, Jiosevani Soro, Apolosi Tora, Sakeo Delai, Filipo Bukayaro, Petero Kelevanua, Sakiusa Siqila, Seru Waqalevu, Petero Ratumaitavuki, Apisai Ravueta, Vuiviwa Naduvalo.
Gollings had earlier said the game was the best teacher so it’s invaluable.
“It also provides an opportunity to identify new talents to keep developing the squad and it all goes towards helping the preparation of the team,” he said.
“My first real focus is just to observe and have really important conversations and start building some key relationships, understanding and the way they have been training so that I really push on the right button.”
Meanwhile, Wardens beat Police Blue 10-7 in the men’s final on Saturday and now leads with 22 points, followed by Police Blue with 19 points and Army in third place with 17.
Mt Masada was crowned the women champion after thrashing Police 20-0.
Meanwhile, Wardens is the top seed in the pool standings for the Super Sevens Series Leg 2. Pool A: Wardens, LAR Barbarians, Eastern Saints, Wadigi Salvo Pool B- Police Blue, Fire, Dominion Brothers, Uluinakau. Pool C- Army, Tabadamu, Nawaka, Police White. Pool D- Ratu Filise, Raiwasa-Taveuni, 16th team, Stallions.
