TABADAMU uility, Apenisa Cakaubalavu has made the cut in the 16-member Fiji Airways men’s sevens team that will travel to Utah, USA tomorrow in preparation for the Rugby World Cup Sevens.
The lanky player, together with the other 15 players, will be fighting for the 12 spots up for grab in the final team.
In a statement released by FRU today, four European based players were named by coach Gareth Baber.
This includes Leone Nakarawa, Josua Tuisuva, Semi Kunatani and Semi Radradra.
Also making the travelling squad are seasonal players of Paula Draunisinikula, Jasa Veremalua, Waisea Nacuqu, Amenoni Nasilasila, Vatemo Ravouvou,
Eroni Sau, Alasio Naduva, Sevuloni Mocenacagi with Captain Jerry Tuwai.
According to the statement, Baber is seeking the ultimate combination of speed and power to give his side the edge in July.
“With the backing of the FRU, we’re able to take the extended squad and give ourselves the best chance for success” he said.
Baber goes on to add that the European based players bring in the experience which is required in big tournaments.
“We know our squad can play with speed and intensity, and bringing in the European players allows us to add extra physical strength and power to the group” said Baber.
“I’ve seen Semi (Radradra), Semi (Kunatani) and Josua handle the 6 game, 2 day tournaments quite well, and we will see where Leone is at after a huge 35 games of 15’s”
“Power can be difficult to handle and his (Nakarawa) presence around the park will be something different we can add to our game for this tournament.”
Baber is expected to name his final squad on July 18th.
The team leaves for Utah tomorrow evening.
Fiji Airway’s Men’s 7s
Rugby World Cup Sevens
Utah Preparations Camp – Touring Squad.
Josua Kurunabili
Semi Kunitani
Kali Nasoko
Jasa Veramulua
Paula Dranisinikula
Leone Nakarawa
Apenisa Cakaubalavu
Jerry Tuwai
Waisea Nacugu
Aminoni Nasilasia
Vatemo Ravouvou
Eroni Sau
Alasio Naduva
Sevuloni Mocenecagi
Josua Tuisova
Semi Radradra
