FIJI Water Flying Fijians captain Tevita Ikanivere says the team is determined to keep emotions in check as they prepare for their Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) opener against Tonga next weekend.
For Ikanivere, the challenge is simple but demanding, staying discipline under pressure and turning preparation into performance.
“We do this for a living. At the end of the day, the main goal is to win,” he said.
“We don’t want to put too many emotions into it. Emotions will come on the day, but right now it’s about getting our systems right. So, when times are tough, we know what to do, when to do it and how to do it. We’re just trying to learn how to win and keep building on that.”
While the spotlight naturally falls on seasoned internationals such as Viliame Mata and other senior campaigners, young Drua flanker Motikiai Murray is relishing the chance to learn from them rather than feeling weighed down.
“For me, it’s a great opportunity to learn from them, especially players like Mata who have played in World Cups,” Murray said.
There’s no pressure for me. It’s about using this chance to grow so that when they move on, I’m ready to take on the spot.”
Murray also highlighted that playing in the PNC goes beyond just the sport, it’s about national pride and responsibility.
With Fiji hosting the tournament opener in Suva, fan expectations are sky-high.
But Ikanivere believes keeping focus on the team’s structure will be key.
The Flying Fijians, currently ranked ninth in the World Rugby rankings, will take on 19th-ranked Tonga at HFC Bank Stadium on Saturday, August 30 at 3pm.