Matavesi in healthy place for Ospreys

JOSH Matavesi reckons he is back in peak shape as he prepares for a fierce battle for Ospreys selection.

The Fiji international, like several of his team-mates, struggled for consistency as the Welsh region’s expected Pro 12 title tilt never materialised. Steve Tandy’s men could finish only eighth, behind Scarlets and Cardiff Blues, and missed out on a place in the Champions Cup.

Matavesi admits preseason has been particularly tough as Ospreys look to avoid a repeat of last season’s disappointments.

The former Racing 92 and Worcester back hopes being in better control of his weight will ensure he is able to get back to his best.

He told The Rugby Paper: “Last season was one of ups and downs for me, I was picked for the World Cup then didn’t play and then we could not find any real consistency after I came back.

“I got a lot of game-time with the Ospreys, but the results didn’t go our way. It was a good learning curve for a lot of the boys and I’m happy that it’s happened.

“We’ve worked really hard and I came back in good shape, which for me is half the battle.

“A lot of Island boys come back heavy because it is easy to put on weight, so for me to come back in better shape than when I was playing at the end of last season, it’s pretty healthy.

“Now I have to make sure I maintain it for the season.”

With Ashley Beck returning to fitness after the latest in a string of injury woes, and Kieron Fonotia due to arrive from the Crusaders, Matavesi knows there will be a fierce contest for the midfield berths.

“It’s good that we’ve got competition and it’s healthy. There’s nothing better,” he said. “We are pushing each other, so whoever gets the shirt will know he’s worked hard Monday to Friday to earn it. It’s about making sure the team does well.

“I have friends who play with Kieron at the Crusaders and he’s going to bring a lot of physicality – those Samoan boys are pretty big! We know whoever plays will do a job.”