FLYING Fijians started their November Tour preparation with local players in the extended squad undergoing endurance and fitness test at the Vodafone Arena in Suva yesterday.
Fiji Rugby Union strength and conditioning coach Naca Cawanibuka said the test would give them an idea on areas to concentrate on ahead of the tour.
Cawanibuka and International Rugby Board strength and conditioning consultant Matt Blair, who was also present during the beep test, will work on the training program based on the results from yesterday. Cawanibuka was not impressed with the results from the test, adding most of the players had just finished with the provincial rugby competition.
He said the beep test gave them a chance to recuperate and get their bodies back in shape.
"Most of them have been playing competitive rugby for the past few months, obviously in terms of training they won't be into the high volumes of conditioning at the moment," Cawanibuka told FRU website.
"We have taken note of the injuries some of the boys are carrying, so what Matt and I will do is increase their conditioning levels so that these injuries can be fixed in time for the Northern Tour."
Meanwhile, Cawanibuka said FRU was fortunate to have the services of Blair during the first camp.
"We are very fortunate to have his services because he is here to share new ideas and help us move forward with the strength and conditioning model in Fiji.
"He will be able to help me design programs that will increase the boys' strength and endurance in time for November."
The Flying Fijians will meet England on November 10, Gloucester on November 13, Ireland A on November 17 and Georgia on November 24 during the tour.
Northern tour extended squad:
Setefano Somoca, Deacon Manu, Ratu Penijamini Makutu, Manasa Saulo, Campese Ma'afu, Seremaia Naureure, Vesi Rarawa, Viliame Veikoso, Tuapati Talemaitoga, Leone Nakarawa, Tevita Cavubati, Api Naikatini, Sekonaia Kalou, Apisalome Ratuniyarawa, Iliesa Ratuva, Netani Talei, Waqabaca Kotobalavu, Malakai Ravulo, Josefa Domilailai, Nemani Nagusa, Maikeli Mocetadra, Watisoni Votu, Nikola Matawalu, Nemia Kenatale, Metuisela Talebula, Josh Matavesi, Jonetani Ralulu, Kelemedi Bola, Vereniki Goneva, Josaia Lotawa, Timoci Matanavou, Ravai Fatiaki, Samu Wara, Simeli Koniferedi, Waisea Nayacalevu, Aisea Natoga.