It’s kick off day for the NZ 7s tournament as our Digicel Fiji 7s team aims to win the Wellington title and get back on track on the IRB 7s points table.
7s fever has hit Wellington as fans from around NZ and other countries have arrived in numbers for the tournament.
Air Pacific flights are just filled with people going to the tournament as Fiji fans hope that the team can turn things around and bring victory.
Here at home, fans are hoping for the best after our dismal performance in Dubai and South Africa.
Our rugby commentator, Akuila Cama who is in Wellington said thousands of rugby fans from around the World are in New Zealand and waiting for the kick off.
Star player, Ilai Tinai said it is now up to the players to step up and deliver for the fans.
Former Marist athlete and debutant, Benito Eremasi said they have other options now after the departure of Alipate Ratini.
Ten players will play at Westpac Stadium for the first time and Joji Ragamate saw the stadium for the first time earlier this week.
He said he had only seen photos of the stadium and he is so lucky to play there from today.
He also tried some kicks at the ground and noted that he has to try very hard as it is very windy and has to take that into account.
Fiji is pooled with Scotland, Australia and Portugal.
Meanwhile, NZ captain, DJ Forbes said as defending champions it will be tough for them to win the title at home and they are wary of the new look Fiji team.
He said they will closely analyze the Fijians from the first match.
New playmaker for the All Blacks 7s who has links to Ba and Rotuma, Rocky Khan said he is ready to run out with the black jersey at Westpac Stadium today.
Barring any upsets, Fiji is expected to meet either NZ or England in the Cup quarter finals.
England coach, Ben Ryan said he is ready to unleash his X-factor.
England is pooled with defending champion and IRB 7s points table leader NZ, USA and Spain.
Samoa’s Lolo Lui is making a comeback in this tournament and he said they want to improve their standing in the IRB 7s table.
The Fiji team to take on Scotland at 1.50pm today:
Ulaiasi Lawavou, Setefano Cakau, Manueli Lagai, Joji Ragamate, Ilai Tinai, Josua Tuisova and Samisoni Viriviri.
Fiji’s second match is against Australia at 4.46pm and our last pool match is against Portugal at 8.34 tonight.
The first pool match of the tournament kicks off 12pm between France and Kenya.
The Cup quarterfinals start 1.33pm tomorrow with the Cup semifinals at 5.35pm.
The Cup final will be played at 8.30pm.
You can also check our website fijivillage.com for photos and interviews from the parade, the hotel room and the stadium with Akuila Cama.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
