Fijian U20 ready for NZ
The Vodafone Fijian Under-20 rugby team are ready for the challenge as they focus on their first game at the Oceania Rugby U20 Championship against New Zealand in the Gold Coast, Australia. Head coach Koli Sewabu told SUNsports yesterday that preparations have been on track although they are lacking in a few positions.
The former national rugby No.8 further added that one of the main challenges faced by the team was the age eligibility which led to the changing of the team every year. “This tournament will surely challenge us and test us to see where we are at and the areas we need to improve on as we head into the 2018 World Rugby under-20 Trophy,” Sewabu said.
“The age eligibility has been a contributing factor and the transition from school rugby to under-20 rugby. The gap in age is something we are trying to fill in before we go out and play.
“New Zealand is one of the best teams out there, but I believe we are ready for the match on Friday.
“This will also be a good platform for these young boys and they can know what to expect when it comes to the under-20 world cup.”
The New Zealand U20 have three Fijian players; New Zealand 7s halfback, Vilimoni Koroi, Hoskins Sotutu of Auckland Blues and former Marist Brothers High School prop Kaliopasi Uluilakepa of the Wellington Hurricanes Academy.
The Fijian U20 side leave for Australia today