Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s team left yesterday to take part in the Women Sevens Series in Langford, Canada on May 12-13.

Coach Iliesa Tanivula has made five changes to the team which played in Japan last month.

The team will be captained by Ana Maria Roqica.

“I’ve made five changes due to injuries,”Tanivula said.

“I hope the players will perform and step up to the roles given to them.

“We will try to up the ante despite the short preparation time. We hope to put on good show.

Replacing the injured players are Merewai Cumu, Asinate Savu, Jiowana Sauto , Mereula Toroti and Raijieli Daveua.

Team: Priscila Siata, Miriama Naiobasali, Merewai Cumu, Asinate Savu, Jiowana Sauto, Ana Maria Roqica, Mereula Toroti, Viniana Riwai, Ana Maria Naimasi, Timaima Ravisa, Luisa Basei and Raijeli Daveua.

Meanwhile, Fiji is in Pool A with defending champions New Zealand, England and Brazil

In Pool B are France, Russia, USA and Japan.

Pool C is arguably the most intriguing with series leaders Australia, Spain, Ireland and Canada.

World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said: “We look forward to what promises to be another exciting weekend of high quality rugby sevens in Langford. The number of breakthrough performances at the third round of the series in Japan last month was a great demonstration of the competitiveness that now exists in the Women’s Sevens Series as the traditionally strong nations are being challenged by emerging powers from around the globe.

Rugby Canada CEO Allen Vansen said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming the best women’s sevens players in the world next week at Westhills Stadium. Langford is an enthusiastic and supportive rugby community that will no doubt celebrate all the competitors on hand, and inspire our Canadian women to give their all in front of a hometown crowd.”

Australia currently lead the standings with 56 points, six more than defending series champions New Zealand with Russia third on 42 points, just ahead of France (40) with Spain and Canada back on 32 points.

Edited by Osea Bola

Feedback:  arieta.vakasukawaqa@fijisun.com.fj