Gollings Wants to Build Up
Fiji Airways Fijian men’s rugby sevens head coach Ben Gollings has recalled speedster Alasio Naduva in his 13-member travelling squad to the Dubai and Cape Town Sevens tournaments.
After playing in a few local competitions, Naduva forced his way into the extended squad. He is expected to bring in experience and provide speed on the wing. Gollings said it is always good to have experienced players back in the fold and Naduva has proven himself during training sessions hence he has secured himself a spot in the team.
“Naduva brings in pace and he has been doing well in training. He is there to provide backup in those positions with pace,” said Gollings.
The former England sevens captain has retained his core players who have been competing at the top level since last year.
In the forwards, Paula Nayacakalou has made the cut once again while Josevani Soro has missed selection for the next two tournaments. Iowane Teba has been rested due to injury while Iowane Raturaciri has been included in the backs and is expected to add more fire power. He is able to assist the captain Wasiea Nacuqu and Pilipo Bukayaro.
“Teba sustained an injury in Hong Kong and he is still not right and rather than risking and pushing him now it’s better to create longevity in the season and have him fully fit.” Gollings said the team is focused on finishing on a high note in Dubai and Cape Town going into the next round of the World Rugby Sevens Series in 2023.
“Going into these two tournaments, we want to build on the performance from the Hong Kong 7s and we would like to push for that number one slot before end of the year. I think it’s important we keep pushing for finals and win finals and build on our performances” said Gollings.
The Dubai Sevens is from December 3-5 followed by the Cape Town Sevens from December 9-11
Fijian 7s squad: Joseva Talacolo, Josua Vakurinabili, Jeremaia Matana, Tira Welagi, Paula Nayacakalou, Sevuloni Mocenacagi, Pilipo Bukayaro, Waisea Nacuqu, Filipe Sauturaga, Vuiviawa Naduvalo, Alasio Naduva, Manueli Maisamoa, Iowane Raturaciri.