Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s coach Richard Walker says the new World Rugby HSBC SVNS series structure will sharpen his side’s competitive edge, describing the two-pool format as a relentless, high-pressure test that demands absolute precision from the world’s top eight teams.
Reflecting on the shift, Walker says making the cut for this season’s elite group was an achievement in itself.
With the new layout likely to produce tight pool standings, he emphasised the importance of point margins, noting that three teams could finish with identical records.
He says it could come down to points differential.
Despite the elevated stakes, Walker insists the Fijiana must remain emotionally loose and joyful.
The Fijiana 7s open their Dubai campaign against the USA at 7.20pm Saturday, before facing France at 9.59pm and New Zealand at 1.27am Sunday.
The women’s semi-finals begin at 9.12pm Sunday, with the final at 3.35am Monday.
Meanwhile, the Fiji Men’s 7s side meet Argentina at 9.10pm Saturday, followed by South Africa at 12.16am Sunday and France at 4.12am Sunday.
The men's semi-finals start at 10.06pm Sunday, with the final at 4.11am Monday.
