Fiji Airways Fijian 7s Head Coach Osea Kolinisau has named his 13-member squad to the Perth 7s this weekend.
Making a return to the fold for his second HSBC 7s Series is 23-year-old youngster Sakiusa Siqila, who last played in the Madrid 7s a year ago. Adding to the squad’s strength is lanky forward Joseva Talacolo, who has made a comeback after recovering from an injury.
Jeremaia Matana and Sevuloni Mocenacagi are unavailable for selection due to injuries sustained at the Coral Coast 7s.
Coach Kolinisau said, “We have put in a lot of work leading up to this tournament, and I’m confident in the squad we have selected.”
The squad also features a balance of experienced campaigners and young talent, with Captain Filipe Sauturaga leading the charge. Kolinisau emphasised the importance of cohesion and discipline as they prepare for a highly competitive weekend.
“We’ve been focusing on executing our game plan under pressure and maintaining consistency throughout all matches. The team knows what’s at stake, and we’re ready to give it our all for Fiji,” Kolinisau added.
The Perth 7s is the third stop in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series and will see Fiji face tough pool matches against New Zealand, Kenya and Uruguay.
Meanwhile, Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s Interim Head Coach Timoci Volavola named a power packed side for the Perth 7s.
With Olympian Sesenieli Donu making a much-anticipated return from a long injury haul. Verenaisi Bari and Mereula Torooti are also back in the squad and will add experience to the young team.
Vodafone Fijiana XV winger Adita Milinia is another notable inclusion and will be on her first HSBC 7s Series outing.
Coach Volavola said “It’s an exciting moment for us as we welcome back Sesenieli Donu, Verenaisi Bari, and Mereula. Their leadership and experience will be invaluable as we aim to build on our recent performances.”
“Adita’s inclusion reflects the depth of talent we have in Fiji, and I’m looking forward to seeing how she adapts to the intensity of 7s rugby at this level,” he added.
The Fijiana 7s team will face challenging pool matches against USA, Canada and Great Britain.
The Perth 7s will be held from the 24th to 26th of January.
