France-based Naibuka Rokoua joined the Sireli Bobo-coached Fijian Development 7s side that will play in the Marist 7s tournament in Apia, Samoa, this weekend.

Rokoua is the son of former national 7s forward Leveni Duvuduvukula who was a member of the team that won the 1997 Rugby World Cup Sevens in Hong Kong.

“I’m here on a four-week break and thought why not be part of the trial” Rokoua said.

“We’ve a good set of boys and I can’t wait for the tournament.”

The Nadakuni, Naitasiri, native played for third division French club Borgoin.

Also part of the Development squad is Josevani Drava, Rokoua Rasaku, Rauto Vakadranu, and Josese Batirerega who played for the Ben Gollings-coached Fiji Airways Fijian men’s side in the HSBC World Sevens Series.

Bobo thanked the Fiji Rugby Union for allowing upcoming players to participate in overseas tournaments.

“It’s a lifetime opportunity for them since they have been identified,” he said.

“It’s a long process. It’s not only that we will focus on their development but future planning as well so that they can play for the national team.”

Bobo said the players have been training for the past few months.

He also urged club coaches to release their players when called to join the national camp.

“Let the player come in so that we can upskill them. Every national team departs from Fiji always want to participate and win. We are going to Samoa to prove ourselves.”

He added the captain would be named after their training run in Apia.

Fiji Development 7s squad: Josevani Drava, Waisake Ravuiwasa, Rauto Vakadranu, Josese Batirerega, Penaia Nawaqabuli, Netava Koroisau, Josateki Tuilawaki, Maleli Tuivusa (Ba) , Isimeli Tikomaimereke, Naibuka Rokua, Jone Natanu, Rokoua Rasaku.

Story by: Waisea Nasokia – waisean@fijisun.com.fj