Missing out on selection for the Fiji team from the previous tournaments did not deter his dream of representing Fiji in the 7s World Cup.
Digicel Fiji 7s Captain Lepani Botia was a happy man today as his name was announced in the 12 member team to Moscow.
Botia returns after a long layoff from injury and said he is ready to do whatever it takes to lead Fiji.
The team announced to carry our hopes to Russia is:
Ilai Tinai, Watisoni Votu, Vereniki Goneva, Metuisela Talebula, Lepani Botia, Jasa Veremalua, Alipate Ratini, Samisoni Viriviri, Joji Ragamate, Leone Nakarawa, Nemani Nagusa and Waisea Nayacalevu.
Botia will captain the side while Verenika Goneva is the vice-captain of the team.
A notable exclusion is former captain, Setefano Cakau.
Meanwhile coach, Alifereti Dere said they dropped Cakau as other players have stepped up.
The 7's Rugby World Cup will be held in Moscow from next Friday.
Fiji is pooled with defending champions Wales, Tonga and Uruguay.
Fiji will play Tonga at 12.28am next Saturday in their first pool match.
We then take on Uruguay at 6.28pm next Sunday and Fiji's last pool match is against Wales at 12.42am Sunday.
The Cup quarter finals start at 9pm Sunday, Cup semis kick off at 12.40am Monday while the World Cup 7s final will start at 4.55am Monday.
Meanwhile the 16 member national 7`s Fijiana squad to Rugby World Cup are Pricilla Siata who will be captaining the side, Siteri Tabua, Asinate Savu, Tavaita Rowati (Vice Captain), Rusila Nagasau, Talica Vodo, Luisa Tisolo, Esiteri Bulikiobo, Viniana Riwai, Litia Naiqato, Elina Ratauluva and Suliana Gusuivalu.
The team will play under the guidance of coach Timoci Wainiqolo.
Story by: Aliki Bia
