Semi Kunatani’s intention!
SEMI Kunatani, who has been our tower of strength in the forwards, has joined the extended 7s training squad and he has set his sights on representing Fiji in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Semi Kunatani, 29, was part of Ben Ryan’s team that won the 2014-15 HSBC WRSS overall title.
Despite signing with Toulouse, he responded to Ben Ryan’s call and joined the team for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
The Beast, as he is fondly known in 7s circles, started his 7s career with Yamacia.
He was selected by Ben to represent Fiji in Dubai, following Yamacia’s 2013 win at the Bayleys Fiji Coral Coast Sevens where Kunatani was a standout player.
Yamacia, which also featured Mosese Maiwalu and Ropate Labalaba, defeated Army 26-7 in the Cup final.
Kunatani scored 37 tries in the 2014-15 7s season and he made the Gold Coast, Las Vegas and Glasgow 7s tournaments.
He was also named the 2016 DHL Impact Player of the HK 7s Tournament after three days of exceptional performances for Fiji.
Kunatani’s stats were the best of any player in HK, making 10 tackles, seven breaks, 11 offloads and 22 carries.
He also went over for five tries, showing his attacking potency.
In the final, Kunatani shone bright as he scored a try.
His contributions in attack and defence helped Fiji to the 21-7 win over the All Blacks 7s.
Our free-scoring, rampaging powerhouse, who could play as a lock, flanker or winger, joined French Top 14 club Toulouse.
Semi played in all six matches in Rio, helping Fiji win our first ever Olympic gold medal.
He was a major factor in the final, playing a significant role.
This saw him join Osea Kolinisau and Josua Tuisova in the Rio 7s Dream Team.
Kunatani will bring a wealth of experience, heading to the next leg in Malaga, Spain. RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM
Nadawa, Nasinu