It is highly likely four Under-20 players from the Fiji Rugby Union High Performance Unit Academy will force their way into the 28-member Telecom Fijian Warriors squad for the Pacific Rugby Challenge.

The PRC will be held on March 10-18 at the ANZ Stadium in Suva.

Coach Senirusi Seruvakula told SUNsports yesterday the five HPU academy players have been impressive in camp and kept on improving from the first day.

The five players are Frank Lomani, Filimoni Savou, Selesitino Kalounivale, Jale Raiyawa and national Fijian Under-20 captain Eroni Mawi.

“The young players pose a threat to the seniors as they have been training every day.

“They stepped up from day one and today they are ready to wear the Warriors jersey, most probably four of them will make the cut into the 28 member squad,” Seruvakula said.

“When it comes to the final 28 there will be a lot of new guys to defend the PRC title.

Seruvakula was also impressed with the players discipline and commitment during the off-season.

“I must acknowledge the players commitment and discipline regarding the off-season programme and gym attendance.”

Seruvakula on NRC

Seruvakula has commended the idea of using local players for the Australia National Rugby Championship in August.

“It’s a big opportunity as this is the first time in the history for our national team to participate in a three months high level competition.

“Playing against those top franchise teams is great,” Seruvakula said.

Meanwhile, the 41-member extended squad finished camp yesterday and 34 players will return to camp on March 1-3. The final 28 players will be announced after the three-day camp.