Former Vodafone Flying Fijians captain Netani Talei joined the preliminary squad yesterday.

The 31-year-old versatile forward believes in the talent and strength in the current squad.

“I watched the boys playing throughout the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup and they were amazing.

“They blend really well, the old and young reps get along well,” Talei said.

The Tavua native felt relieved after joining the squad for the 2015 RWC.

“It really feels good joining the boys after returning from injury, the energy is high.

“I started well in training for now it’s just getting the experienced players a plan to set leading the way rather than going around and doing our own thing,” Talei said.

In 2007 he was part of the 30-man Fiji squad that reached the quarter-finals in France. He played in three pool games before being injured that ruled him out for the rest of the tournament.

Tuapati Talemaitoga

Talemaitoga believes there were lessons learned from the 2015 PNC as he aims to be part of the 2015 RWC team.

“There were a lot of things learned from the PNC campaign now I’m just working hard to be part of the RWC team.

“I know it will not be easy as there are other capable players in the team but I will try my best,” Talemaitoga said.

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