63rD Test For Qera

2017 was a good year for us but we need to do better in 2018 and our performance must build towards the 2019RWCAkapusi Qera

Akapusi Qera will lead the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians in the June internationals next month.

He is expected to play his 63rd test against Manu Samoa on June 9 at the ANZ Stadium 13 years after making his debut for Fiji. The Tubou, Lakeba, Lau native said 2018 Pacific Nations Cup tests against Samoa, Georgia and Tonga should gauge where they stand building up to the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Playing for Agen rugby club in France, Qera, 34, is expected to play in his fourth Rugby World Cup in Japan.

“I am very pleased to be named in a strong squad for the June internationals,”Qera said. “The tests provide us with a challenge and will allow us to see where we are on the world stage.

“Each opposition will bring special challenges and I am sure with good preparation and hard work, this group will come together and fly the flag with pride. “With less than 18 months to RWC 2019, the test series is important for us in terms of Fiji’s standing as the top Tier 2 nation. “2107 was a good year for us but we need to do better in 2018 and our performance must build towards 2019.

“We expect a very tough challenge from the three nations and it is vital for the players to focus and getting the job done. The players must focus on getting the basics right and executing our plays under pressure to win the series. The 28-member squad will march into camp at Grand Pacific Hotel on Monday.

WARRIORS ON RADAR

The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians

head coach John McKee sees the potential in local players to represent Fiji in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

“The squad that has been named are a very talented group of players with local inclusions who have the potential to step up and put

their hands up for the 2019 RWC.” McKee said he will also be looking at the performance of players in the Swire Shipping Fiji Warriors side during the World Rugby Nations Cup Tournament in Uruguay next month.

“The Warriors team will be travelling

to Uruguay for the World Rugby Nations Cup tournament in Uruguay and I am really looking forward to see the performances of other players and maybe open the door for maybe one or two to join the squad,” McKee said.

He has also been linked with a move to Northampton Saints. Saints last week added England veteran James Haskell to their books but may well be interested in signing a player as versatile as Nakarawa, who is equally adept in the backrow as at lock.