Four debutants in Fiji 7s squad for LA 7s

The Fiji Airways National Men’s 7s Head Coach Ben Gollings has named four debutants in his 13-member squad for Los Angeles and Vancouver 7s.

Army duo, Anasa Qaranivalu and Rokoua Rasaku, Police forward Alusio Vakadranu and Uluinakau utility Ponipate Loganimasi have made the cut for the Los Angeles 7s.

Gollings says they have been needing new energy and a little bit of shake-up in the team for quite some time and the previous Coral Coast and Nawaka 7s allowed them to spot these players.

The coach says the four debutants selected bring different dynamics to the team and he believes this is an ideal opportunity for them to shine on the World stage.

Gollings says selections were based on form and character.

He adds it is also important for players to know that there is a level of competition which is going to keep them on their toes and keep pushing themselves to the standards that are required.

The Fiji 7s squad to the LA and Vancouver 7s are Tevita Daugunu {c}, Josese Batirerega, Jeremaia Matana, Anasa Qaranivalu, Alusio Vakadranu, Josua Vakurinabili, Jerry Tuwai, Pilipo Bukayaro, Waisea Nacuqu, Manueli Maisamoa, Ponipate Loganimasi, Rokoua Rasaku and Iowane Teba.

The notable exclusions are Vuiviawa Naduvalo, Sevuloni Mocenacagi and Alasio Naduva.

Fiji will play Japan at 7.05am in their first pool match next Sunday, they will play Kenya at 10.18am in their second pool match before playing Australia at 2.05pm in their final pool match on Sunday.