Baber names 12 for Sydney 7s

Fiji Airways Fijian 7s Head Coach Gareth Baber has named his squad of 12 men to step out onto ANZ Stadium at Olympic Park in Homebush and contest this weekend’s Sydney 7s.

Baber has retained 11 of the 12 who produced the series winning performance in Hamilton last weekend, with Apenisa Cakaubalavu to step into the squad, replacing Paula Dranisinukula.

Cakaubalavu narrowly missed selection for Hamilton and Coach Baber applauds the young forward’s effort on the training track in pushing hard for a return to the tournament 12.

“I mentioned last week it was a tough decision to not select Apenisa as he has been working very hard at training and pushing the squad to produce their best. He has again proven himself on the field this week and we know he can do the job he needs to do this weekend.

Paula will step back into 13th Man this week as we manage his workload and retun to full strength. We are fortunate to have this kind of depth in our ranks.” said Baber.

Baber reiterated all other squad members were at full fitness.

“The boys have had a good week, we’ve had Captains Run, they’re getting themselves ready to go and we’re looking forward to the challenge ahead, starting with Japan first up” he said.

Kalione Nasoko will continue as Captain and says the boys focus is on game one tomorrow.

“We know every game will be tough this weekend, just like last weekend, we will continue to focus on our own jobs, do what we’ve been working on and just concentrate on one game at a time.”

Fiji Airways Fijian 7s Team for Sydney 7s

Mesulame Kunavula

Kalione Nasoko (Captain)

Sevuloni Mocenacagi

Ratu Meli Derenelagi

Josua Vakurunabili

Apenisa Cakaubalavu

Jerry Tuwai

Waisea Nacuqu

Terio Tamani

Vilimoni Botitu

Alasio Naduva

Aminiasi Tuimaba

13th Man – Paula Dranisinukula