Pacific Nations Cup key for Fiji’s World Cup preparations – Byrne

Fiji Water Flying Fijians Head Coach Mick Byrne says the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup will be crucial in building the right combinations ahead of the July Test window and the Rugby World Cup.

Speaking at a press conference, Byrne highlighted the importance of integrating Europe-based players with those from the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, saying that the PNC and the upcoming Tests against Scotland and Australia will serve as ideal platforms for preparation.

Byrne says there are a few key factors in play right now, and one of them is achieving consistency in their selections.

He says with only about twenty test matches left before the world cup, every game will be an opportunity to trial combinations and give players a chance to stake their claim for a spot in the World Cup squad.

Byrne says that the PNC will also provide an opportunity to expose some of the younger Drua players to the demands of international rugby.

The Pacific Nations Cup kicks off on 23rd August, Fiji plays Tonga at the HFC Bank Stadium on 30th August in their first pool match.

Fiji is set to play Australia on the 6th of July in McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle at 3.30pm and will face Scotland on the 12th of July at 3pm at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.