Coach John McKee wants more depth in all positions building up to 2019 Rugby World Cup

John McKee is happy with the progress the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians have made since the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

But the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians head coach admitted that more work is needed to add depth in all positions for the future.

The Flying Fijians are currently camping in Toulouse, France in preparation for the internationals against Italy (November 11), Ireland (Nov 18) and Canada (November 25).

PROPS

“There is always a big work on for us. It will be a big challenge for us against Italy next week,”McKee said.

“ We have certainly made progress since 2014-15 and we can see our depth of players, particularly props, building up.

“We now have younger players coming through in the front row positions at 18-20year levels as well.”

McKee said the transition augurs well for the future as props play a key role.

The introduction of Mosese Ducivaki, Joeli Veitayaki,Ropate Rinakama and Kalivati Tawake to play alongside veterans Campese Ma’afu, Manasa Saulo and Peni Ravai is the way forward and it’s working.

HOOKER

But McKee said more work is needed to add more depth at hooker.

“Still work to do in developing strength and depth at hooker looking towards 2019 & 2023 RWC,”McKee said.

Sunia Koto and Tuapati Talemaitoga have been the regulars in the position for the past decade.

Young Nadroga and Fiji Airways Drua hooker Ratunaisa Navuma is the understudy for the position on the tour party.

LOCKS

On the locking positions to cover for Leone Nakarawa,  Apisalome Ratuniyarawa, Tevita Cavubati and Dominiko Waqaniburotu, McKee has a plan in place

“I have my eye on a number of young locks for the future,”McKee said.

“Some are based in Australia, France, New Zealand and some coming through our rugby pathway in Fiji.

“I see opportunity for young players in the lock position towards 2019RWC if they continue to improve and show good form.  “Certainly we have good depth of young locks coming through towards 2023RWC.”

TRAINIING

The team had a mix training session yesterday

“Training has been a mix of clarity around our game plan and players individual roles and intensive team sessions.

“With the team sessions we have worked on units (backs & forwards) and team game plan in attack and defence.

“I have been pleased with the progress over three days and the players focus and commitment around trainings and team meetings.”

“Players playing in Europe will go back to their clubs this weekend. Hopefully all players get through their games without injury.”

Edited by Anasilini Ratuva

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