2018 RWC 7s: New role for Naduva

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Flyer Alasio Naduva will cover the halfback position at this weekend’s Rugby World Cup Sevens in San Francisco. Picture: FILE

ALL eyes will be on speed merchant Alasio Naduva after fulfilling his dream to represent the country at this weekend’s Rugby World Cup Sevens.

Armed with blistering speed and uncanny footwork that convinced Fiji Airways Fiji 7s coach Gareth Baber to choose him ahead of the highly favoured Eroni Sau.

The Suva-based soldier will be out to do his best for the fans. And with that in mind, Baber has added more workload on Naduva’s shoulders after his impressive outing at the two-week training camp in Utah.

The Fiji 7s paceman has been used by Baber to cover for the halfback position.

The same tactic was also used by former 7s coaches Peni Veidreyaki and the late Rupeni Ravonu when they switched Fero Lasagavibau from his usual wing position to halfback.

And having a speedster at the base of the scrum will be a handful for the opposition to contain. Baber said Naduva had fitted well in his new role during training.

“Alasio has been trained at halfback and on the wing,” he said.

“We are looking at ways to cover the two spots and he has responded well in training,” Baber said.

“Obviously the 12 players picked have the balance to cover more than one position. Baber said there was a need to have wealth of utility players as possible to give the team more options.

“I need to have the balance like to cover for the wing and halfback likewise for Sevu (Mocenacagi) who will also cover the rover.”

Naduva has saved the Fijians from the jaws of defeat during some HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series tournaments this year and is expected to lift his form to another level during the sevens world cup this weekend.

While he may not have the physique to flatten oppositions with huge hits like Sau, the Cakaudrove man is expected to have a few tricks up his sleeves to complement his pace.

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