Get ready for some electrifying rugby action as Fiji’s 7s team gears up to dominate the Dubai opener of the HSBC SVNS tournament! But here’s where it gets exciting: despite the challenges of long-distance travel and jet lag, the team has not only adapted swiftly but is also firing on all cylinders. Fiji’s head coach, Osea Kolinisau, couldn’t be more confident, revealing that his squad has seamlessly settled into Dubai and is laser-focused on kicking off the season with a bang.
The players have wasted no time in acclimatizing to the local conditions, shaking off any travel fatigue, and diving headfirst into intense preparations. And this is the part most people miss: Kolinisau and his team have been meticulously fine-tuning their defensive and offensive strategies, studying both their upcoming opponents and their own performances from last season. It’s a level of preparation that could set them apart in this highly competitive tournament.
Adding to their advantage, Fiji has arrived in Dubai with no injury concerns, a rare and welcome relief for any team. But here’s where it gets controversial: the team has also strategically stationed three standby players in Dubai, who traveled with the Sri Lions for an invitational tournament. This move ensures Fiji can swiftly replace any injured players without the delay of long-haul flights from Suva. Is this a game-changer or an unnecessary precaution? Let’s discuss in the comments!
Kolinisau expressed his satisfaction with the arrangement, stating, ‘They’re on standby if there’s an injury, so we can make immediate changes instead of flying players in from Fiji. It’s a huge advantage, and I’m thrilled the boys are here, training hard, and ready to go.’
Fiji’s schedule is packed with thrilling matchups: they face Argentina at 9:10 PM on Saturday, followed by a clash with South Africa at 12:16 AM on Sunday. They’ll wrap up their pool stage against France at 4:12 AM on Sunday. With such a strong start, Fiji is undoubtedly a team to watch.
Thought-provoking question: With their strategic preparations and injury-free lineup, could Fiji be the dark horse of this tournament? Share your thoughts below!
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