Baber names squad for Hong Kong and Singapore 7s

Fiji Airways Fijian 7s Coach Gareth Baber has named the 14 player Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team for the Hong Kong and Singapore tournament next month.

Despite the national team being hit with injuries and with skipper Kalione Nasoko and Waisea Nacuqu out, Baber has managed to put up a formidable side with a few new players in the mix.

Josua Vakurunabili, Paula Dranisinukula, Ratu Meli Derenalagi and Sevuloni Mocenacagi retain their places in the forward together with Isoa Tabu who made his debut in Las Vegas 7s in the US while Apenisa Cakaubalavu returns to the side.

Police 7s skipper Livai Ikanikoda makes his return to the national team after last representing the side in 2011 while long time extended squad member Napolioni Ratu also makes the cut into the 14 member team.

Together with Nasoko and Nacuqu, Baber has also dropped Mesulame Kunavula.

Robust forward Paula Dranisinukula will captain the team in Hong Kong and Singapore 7s.

With a solid week on the training track Baber says his players are looking forward to the challenge ahead.

“All players have prepared well and shown focus over our time so far and all are fit and ready to go.”

Fiji being their campaign against Kenya at 11.37pm on Friday {FJT}, before meeting Australia at 5.13pm Saturday (FJT) and faces arch rivals New Zealand.

Fiji Airways Fijian 7s Hong Kong and Singapore 7s Tournament Team

1. Josua Vakurunabili
2. Paula Dranisinukula
3. Isoa Tabu
4. Ratu Meli Derenalagi
5. Sevuloni Mocenacagi
6. Apenisa Cakaubalavu
7. Asaeli Tuivoka
8. Jerry Tuwai
9. Terio Temani
10. Napolioni Ratu
11. Vilimoni Botitu
12. Alasio Naduva
13. Aminisai Tuimaba
14. Livai Ikanikoda