Fiji Rugby Union has appointed Senirusi Seruvakula as Acting Head Coach of the Flying Fijians following the immediate departure of Mick Byrne.
Seruvakula, a seasoned figure in Fijian rugby, takes over the national side with a strong track record at both domestic and international level. His appointment signals continuity, having been part of recent successes for Fiji on the global stage.
He was a member of the coaching team that guided Fiji to historic wins over England at Twickenham and Australia at the last Rugby World Cup. He also led the Fijiana 15s to their first-ever Rugby World Cup qualification and coached Fiji to victory over the Barbarians to win the Kilik Cup in 2019.
At club level, Seruvakula coached the Fiji Drua to the 2018 National Rugby Championship title, further cementing his reputation as one of the country’s top rugby minds.
The coaching change comes after FRU confirmed Byrne’s departure by mutual agreement.
“Following discussions about the future direction of the Flying Fijian program, both parties concluded that it is in the best interests of Fiji Rugby to part ways,” the union said.
FRU Chief Executive Koli Sewabu acknowledged Byrne’s contribution.
“Mick has been fully committed to his role and remains dedicated to the players and staff,” Sewabu said.
“Out of respect for the team and to ensure the programme can continue to the new direction that Fiji Rugby has set for the future, Mick and Fiji Rugby has agreed to part ways so FRU can move forward.”
The union thanked Byrne for his service, highlighting his role in building the current squad and strengthening the national programme.
“We acknowledge the foundation he has helped build. Under his guidance, from the Fijian Drua to the Flying Fijians, we have seen growth, resilience, and a commitment to the white jersey that will serve us well moving forward. These are not simply moments in a season, but pillars for our future success,” said Sewabu.
Byrne said coaching Fiji had been a privilege.
“It has been an honour to work with the Flying Fijians players and staff. And before that the Drua players and staff. I have been overwhelmed by the support of ‘the world’s best’ Fiji fans during my 5-year involvement— their warmth and welcome have meant a great deal to me. I remain fully committed to the game and wish Fiji Rugby every success moving forward,” Byrne said.
FRU said interim coaching arrangements are now in place, with Seruvakula leading the team while the process to appoint a permanent head coach gets underway.
