Nacuqu to build on momentum at Hamilton.

Waisea Nacuqu is one of Fiji’s most lethal smiling assasins with a global reputation for footwork and speed his ability to break open games makes him a menacing presence on the field.

The 5 ft 7 playmaker has made the most of his opportunities early in the 2019 series with Head Coach Gareth Baber heralding his influence on the win at Cape Town.

On the last two tournaments in the 2019 series at Dubai and Cape Town, Nacuqu scored a total of 6 tries and 10 conversions on the 11 match he played in with a total point of 50.

“I think a lot of why we won that tournament at Cape Town was down to Nacuqu, he stepped up, put the work in and did exactly what he threatens to do and can do,” added Baber.

The Head Coach could have been concerned with the void left in the absence of senior player Vatemo Ravouvou, particularly at the restart, but Baber says he’s been pleased with the manner Nacuqu and his fellow team mates have been filling that gap.

“Vatemo is one of the best in the world in restart but we have progressed 3 or 4 players including some of those young players to that level and quality and we’re hitting those targets which is great for the team.” Baber said.

Succession planning and the blooding of fresh talent is integral to consistency of success for Fiji with Baber making a concerted effort in the 2019 to nurture the young and new players in the squad so he has capable players available to fill the gap should the type of disruptions occur that we’ve seen this season.

“I feel that there’s players that are pushing the squad forward and that’s what I need to ensure that everybody stays as disciplined as they can be making sure that they getting their skills and technical work done.”

Fiji will defend their NZ Sevens title in Hamilton and Baber said the team are looking forward to the support they receive on the ground in New Zealand.

“Our Fijian crowd in NZ gives us enormous support, the lift that they give the players when they play in New Zealand is really beneficial, but ultimately the players remind themselves that they are doing it all for their supporters especially those back at home,” added Baber.

Fiji face Australia, Argentina and Wales in pool A when the tournament kicks off this Saturday, January 26.