Baber names strong outfit for Paris 7s

There is just one change to Gareth Baber’s powerful 12 member Fiji Airways Fijian 7s squad for the final leg of the HSBC World Sevens Series in Paris this weekend.

Baber said “It was very tough to select the just 12 players as competition within the group was at an all time high knowing the World Sevens Series is up for grab in France.”

Napolioni Ratu returns into the tournament 12 with the lively playmaker putting his hand up during the week in Paris replacing Livai Ikanikoda who made an outstanding comeback after returning to the national team in Hong Kong this year.

Baber said “Napolioni has worked hard in his training and around the team last week while Livai has learned alot in the last three tournaments and it is great to be able to have such competition in our squad.”

Captain Courageous Paula Dranisinukula has been in punishing form and will continue to spearhead Fiji’s power pack alongside Sevuloni Mocenacagi, Josua Vakurunabili, Apenisa Cakaubalavu and Rookie of the Year nominated Ratu Meli Derenalagi.

Fiji’s dynamic backline combinations will again be on show.

Asaeli Tuivoka retains his place after a solid performance in London with Jerry Tuwai, Waisea Nacuqu, Aminiasi Tuimaba, Filimoni Botitu and Alasio Naduva rounding out a fierce line for the boys in white.

Baber added “The task ahead will not be easy but we are adamant the players will deliver in the two day competition.”

The Fiji Airways Fijian 7s are pooled with Ireland, Argentina and England in Pool A.

They take on England in the first match at 10.50pm {FJT} tomorrow then faces Argentina at 2.16am {FJT} on Sunday, before meeting Ireland in the final pool match on 5.42am {FJT}

1. Sevuloni Mocenacagi

2. Paula Dranisinukula

3. Josua Vakurunabili

4. Ratu Meli Derenalagi

5. Apenisa Cakaubalavu

6. Asaeli Tuivuaka

7. Filimoni Botitu

8. Waisea Nacuqu

9. Jerry Tuwai

10. Alasio Naduva

11. Aminiasi Tuimaba

12. Napolioni Ratu

13. Isoa Tabu