Sneaking a peek into the 2019 Rugby World Cup Campaign

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The Naitasiri rugby team training at Buckhurst Park yesterday preparing for this weekend Skipper cup.Picture ATU RASEA

FIJI Airways Flying Fijians head coach John McKee has some strategies up his sleeves for a successful 2019 Rugby World Cup campaign.Fiji reached the world cup quarterfinals twice (1987, 2007) and the challenge is on McKee to create history in surpassing Fiji’s past records.

The Flying Fijians have been drawn against two Tier One teams Australia and Wales for next year’s RWC and for Fiji to be successful, the side needs to upset these rugby giants.

McKee says he will leave no stone unturned in his effort to assemble all the top Fijian players for the RWC.

“We need to take our Test match performance levels higher. To be successful in RWC2019 we will need to beat Tier 1 nations. Australia, Wales and Georgia which is a very difficult
team to beat” McKee said.

He said the June Tests would be crucial for players.

“The June Tests are very important for us to maintain our position as the top team in the Pacifi c and top Tier Two team in World Rugby rankings.

“There is a lot of competition for places in the Flying Fijians squad. I need to see players preparing well for June and put in their best form to show me they deserve a place in the 2019 squad.”

Players expected for the 2019RWC are Kalivati Tawake, Peni Ravai, Manasa Saulo, Campese Ma’afu, Tuapati Talemaitoga, Ropate Rinakama, Leone Nakarawa, Api Ratuniyarawa, Albert Tuisue,  Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Viliame Mata, Semi Kunatani, Nemani Nagusa, Akapusi Qera, Nikola Matawalu, Ben Volavola, JaleVatubua, Sevanaia Galala, Semi Radradra, Vereniki Goneva, Josua
Tuisova, Nemani Nadolo, Timoci Nagusa, Eremasi Radrodro, Nikola Matawalu, Eroni Vasiteri, Patrick Osbourne, Benito Masilevu, Seta Tuicuvu, Tevita Cavubati, Peceli Yato, Levani Botia,  Metuisela Talebula and Kini Murimuriivalu.

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