Flying Fijians’ head coach Mick Byrne had to bring in six uncapped players into his Pacific Nations Cup extended squad as experienced players were given time off due to family commitments.
The new players are Adrea Cocagi, Vuate Karawalevu, and Fijian Drua players Mesake Vocevoce, Apisalome Vota, Kavaia Tagivetaua and Epeli Momo.
Byrne believes this is an excellent opportunity for these newcomers to prove themselves.
Despite some senior players being absent, he is confident the uncapped players will deliver.
He has advised them to enjoy the experience and be themselves during the PNC.
“Our Northern Hemisphere players went straight back into rugby, playing for their clubs. And they finished with the All Blacks test. So they’ve grabbed a few weeks’ leave and are spending time with family. So Semi Radrodro is one of those players. He regrets not being able to come down.”
Byrne noted that most senior players, including Semi Radradra, will rejoin the team in November.
He said that having the team come together just six days before next week’s test match presents a challenge.
He explained that under World Rugby rules, a team can only assemble and enter camp one week before the test.
Despite this difficulty, Byrne has expressed his gratitude for having a coaching panel that is well-versed in the plans and ready to tackle the challenge.
“But we’ve got a good coaching group and we’ll get clear with our plans on the Saturday night and the Sunday. And then we’ll get to get to work, serious work on the Monday. We’ll work to get our game plan right”
The Flying Fijians will face Samoa next Friday at HFC Bank Stadium.
