AFTER being sidelined for six months due to a severe shoulder injury, Army forward Kavekini Tanivanuakula has made a triumphant return to the Fiji Airways Fiji Men’s 7s team for the upcoming Singapore 7s tournament.
The Ba-born Bukuya player, who had been out of action since his injury, expressed his gratitude for his recovery, attributing it to God’s providence.
“I was out for six months due to my injury, but through God’s providence, I’ve recovered, and it’s been a call to work on my fitness,” he said.
Making his debut for the national team at the Dubai 7s in 2024, Tanivanuakula is eager to make an impact on his return.
He credits his parents as his greatest motivators, always supporting and guiding him in his rugby journey.
“My parents have been my biggest motivation, who advise me on a daily basis to fulfil my duties.”
Tanivanuakula is focused on improving his game fitness and communication with his teammates, aiming to give his best on the field.
Having won the Coral Coast Fiji 7s tournament twice, representing both the Army and Fiji Blues, Tanivanuakula is no stranger to success.
He emphasised the team’s preparation for the Singapore 7s, highlighting areas such as communication and defence that they are working on to strengthen their performance.
“Our preparation has been good, and we’re working to improve in several areas, such as communication and defence.
“Getting to represent my country again will be an honour, I will give my 100 per cent on the field.”
With two debutants in the team for the upcoming tournament, including Malolo rugby fullback Douglas Daveta and Dominion Brothers utility Nacani Boginisoko, Fiji is gearing up for tough competition in Pool A against South Africa, Great Britain, and Spain.
They will open against Great Britain at 4.32pm on Saturday, followed by matches against Spain at 7.58pm and South Africa at 11.46pm.
The Men’s Cup semi-finals will be played at 6.52pm on Sunday, with the final scheduled for 11.41pm.
In the women’s competition, the Fijiana 7s are pooled with Cape Town champions Australia, USA, and Japan.
The competition is scheduled to take place this Saturday and Sunday.
