‘Tough’ pool in Perth

Listen to this article:

Fiji 7s players Filipe Sauturaga and Josua Vakurunabili pair up during training at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, on Fri 05 Jan 2024. Picture: ELIKI NUKUTABU

Fiji Airways Fiji 7s men’s player Josua Vakurunabili says they are expecting tough competition at the Perth 7s after being pooled with New Zealand, France, and Samoa. Vakurunabili is with the Fiji 7s extended side at the Fiji Bitter Lomaiviti 7s in Levuka.

“Despite how tough the pool is, we are excited to compete, and we will not back down,” the Tokyo Olympic Games gold medallist said.

“We have discussed our goals for the year, and we will not stop until we’ve achieved them.”

He added competing at the Fiji Bitter Lomaiviti 7s exposed a lot of their weaknesses and areas they needed to work on.

“We are trying to make use of this tournament and expose our weaknesses.

“This is good because it will help with our growth as a team.

“We know what we have to do and we are all working hard before the season starts.”

Meanwhile, Argentina heads Pool A and is drawn alongside Dubai 7s title holders South Africa, Canada, and Spain.

Australia, Ireland, Great Britain, and the US make up Pool B.

The Perth 7s will be played at HBF Park with fans set to witness three thrilling days of rugby from January 26-28.