Baber names touring party for series opener in Dubai
With just over a week until the opening round of the 2019-2020 HSBC World Sevens Series, Fiji Airways Fijian 7s Head Coach Gareth Baber has announced his much anticipated 14 man touring squad to depart for Dubai this Thursday.
Baber has managed to keep majority of his 2019 Series winning combination together enabling the team to strengthen their game ahead of a major year ahead.
“Each and every player has contributed massively over the last two years.”
“We are looking to build their confidence on field with each other, build their ability to play as a group and deliver the game we need” said Baber.
Amongst the experienced players, Kavekini Tabu has earned his debut inclusion in the touring squad.
Baber said the explosive forward has put his hand up over the pre-season and will add plenty of fire power to the team.
“Kavekini has worked hard. He has a no nonsense approach to the way he plays. He is physical, robust and his accuracy in tackles have impressed me and the other officials” said Baber.
Baber will name his tournament team in Dubai next week with each player’s performance and character key to their selection in what is a long and important calendar for the Fijian 7s.
“I’ve been looking at how these boys have been operating in training, not just in the game but also their conduct and behavior off field” said Baber.
Paula Dranisinikula will Captain the side as he returns to the Dubai after missing the fixture in 2019 with a fractured leg.
Dubai was also the debut tournament for Aminiasi Tuimaba, Vilimoni Botitu and Ratu Meli Derenelagi who now head into their second HSBC World Sevens Series as established names on the circuit.
The Dubai 7s will run from the 6th to the 8th at The Sevens Stadium where the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s are pooled with France, Argentina and Japan.
They meet Japan in their opening match at 4.02pm on the 6th of December then face Argentina at 10.04pm and France at 4.02am the following day.
Fiji Airways Fijian 7s touring squad for opening leg in Dubai and South Africa.
1. Sevuloni Mocenacagi
2. Josua Vakurunabili
3. Isoa Tabu
4. Apenisa Cakaubalavu
5. Paula Dranisinukula {c}
6. Ratu Meli Derenalagi
7. Vilimoni Botitu
8. Waisea Nacuqu
9. Jerry Tuwai
10. Alasio Naduva
11. Aminiasi Tuimaba
12. Napolioni Bolaca
13. Kavekini Tabu
14. Terio Tamani