Isake ‘Ice Man’ Katonibau back in 7s camp
Evergreen forward Isake Katonibau has joined the Fiji Airways 7s team camp at the Uprising Beach Resort.
His inclusion will blosterpreparations for the third round of the World Rugby Sevens Series in Las Vegas on March 2-4 and Vancouver on March 10-11.
Head coach Gareth Baber confirmed to SUNsports yesterday that the tough solidier had joined the players in the squad for a fitness test. “He was not with us in previous tournaments because of his responsibilities in the army, but he went through the fitness test today (yesterday) and did well.
“Hats off to him, putting his hands up to do the work and train with the squad,” Baber said.
Also joining the squad in camp were Police speedster Sakeo Railoa and Ratu Filise utility back Levani Tani. “They have both came in and were ready to train,” Baber said. He added that playmaker Vatemo Ravouvou was under medical observation and would wait for the doctor’s report today. “Waisea Nacuqu and Ravouvou have joined us in camp, Ravouvou has minor injuries and will see the doctor tomorrow(today) to have his scan,” Baber said.
At the Las Vegas 7s the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team tops Pool A alongside Kenya, France and Russia. In Pool B, South Africa will play England, Canada and Wales.
Australia, winners of the Sydney 7s and Bronze final in Hamilton, are drawn in Pool C with Samoa, USA and Spain. New Zealand will face Scotland, Argentina and invitational team Uruguay in Pool D.
The Fijian 7s team is now third on the Sevens Series standing with 62 points while South Africa leads with 77 points and New Zealand is in second place with 69 points.