Warriors coach wary of challengers

Telecom Fijian Warriors head coach Senirusi Seruvakula is not wasting any time as they prepare for their World Rugby Pacific Challenge, which kicks-off at the ANZ Stadium, Suva on Friday.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Seruvakula said, he is going to name his 23-member squad to face Tonga A today. “To go in as defending champions is tough,” the no-nonsense coach said.

“It’s going to be a very hard tournament for us. There are lot of expectations on our players as they are locallybased and we’ve also got a few new players in the team as well.” Seruvakula took the squad out on their first training session at the Nasova ground in Suva.

“Our preparation has been coming out well and everything should fall in place once we get closer to game day.” World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said, “The Pacific Challenge helps local and academy players gain beneficial game time and gives exposure to a high-performance tournament environment. “Fiji Warriors won last year’s tournament but I expect they’ll face tough competition to retain the trophy. It’s certainly an exciting event for fans in Suva.” Tickets can be bought from Fiji Rugby Union and the Fiji Sports Council or online at www.ticketdirect.co.nz. Ticket prices are: $10 for grandstand and $5 for cement and grass embankment.

Joeli Veitayaki, Osea Bolawaqatabu, Samu Suguturaga, Jerry Naureure, Kalivati Tawake, Eroni Mawi, Mesake Doge, Peni Naulago, Sailosi Dawai, Timoci Temo, Vasikali Mudu, Kelepi Naimasi, Mosese Voka, Jiuta Takubu, Eremasi Radrodro, Serupepeli Vularika, Sakiusa Gavidi, Jonetani Ralulu, Filimoni Savou, Eroni Vasiteri, Cyril Reece, Iferemi Tovilevu, Lepani Raiyala, Apete Daveta, John Stewart, Apisalome Waqatabu, Frank Lomani. 3pm Junior Japan v Samoa A 5pm Fijian Warriors v Tonga A.