VUCAGO Bainitabua is ready to lay his body on the line to earn his spot in the Digicel Fiji sevens team for the third leg of the International Rugby Board (IRB) Sevens World Series.
The Red Rock player was yesterday named in the 21-member national squad that will march into camp next week Monday.
Jasa Veremalua and Viliame Navanua are the other players from the champion Qauia-based club to force their way into the national training squad.
Veteran Setefano Cakau, Levani Botia, Joji Ragamate and Ilai Tinai are the only players retained from the last leg.
Nemani Nagusa, Ulaiasi Lawavou, Manueli Laqai, Osea Kolinisau, Niko Verekauta and Samisoni Viriviri are making their return in the Alifereti Dere-coached side.
Lomaiviti Babas speedster Eremasi Benito and Suva fly half Emosi Mulevoro are the other exciting names in the squad.
Bainitabua, like some other players in the 21-member national training squad, was not named in the initial extended squad but was recommended by the newly-appointed 7s selectors to try out for the team at the fitness test which was held earlier this week.
And the 24-year-old Navicovatu, Wainibuka, Tailevu lad is determined to make the 12-member squad for the Wellington and Las Vegas 7s next month.
Soft-spoken Bainitabua thanked Red Rock mentor Lote Rasiga for helping him reach this far in his budding rugby career.
Rasiga spotted Bainitabua at the Natalaira 7s tournament last year where he played for the FNU Lautoka club.
"I was surprised to be named in the 21-member squad but I'm ready to fight for my country if given a chance to represent Fiji at the international stage," he said.
"I trust my caliber that I can make a difference in the defense and attacking style of the play," the utility backline player added.
Rasiga, who is one of the selectors, thanked Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) for answering his prayers and giving the Red Rock players a chance to make the national team.
"These players were really impressive in Red Rock's win at the Coral Coast 7s tournament (last year) and they have proven their worth at the fitness test," he said.
"I'm really happy for them and hope they continue to impress to make the national team for the upcoming leg."
Rasiga was also impressed with the fitness of the players, adding this was one of the best national 7s training squad named by the FRU.
Meanwhile, the players are requested to report to the Rugby House on Monday at 3pm for the three-day camp.
All players are requested to bring their birth certificate, passport, passport photo, sulu and sandals.
Fiji 7s 21-member squad: Jasa Veremalua, Ulaiasi Lawavou, Manueli Laqai, Lepani Botia, Peni Ravai, Jone Vota, Setefano Cakau, Nemani Nagusa, Mosese Saunivanua, Joji Ragamate, Viliame Navanua, Sakuisa Gavidi, Ilai Tinani, Emosi Mulevoro, Vucago Banitabua, Manasa Nayagi, Osea Kolinisau, Josua Tuiova, Eremasi Benito, Niko Verekauta, Samisoni Viriviri