Fiji Airways Fijian 7s head coach Gareth Baber believes Kalione Nasoko has the quality of a leader.

This was after Baber chose the Waya Levu, Yasawa native to lead the team at Oceania 7s Championship which starts at the ANZ Stadium on Friday.

“The boys have been preparing from pre-season building up to this tournament,”Baber said.

“Kali is one of my trusted leaders in the group. “I want Kali to lead them this weekend. Seremaia Tuwai did a great job last season. This is the opportunity to bring in Kali and Paula Dranisinukula. Last season there were people who questioned Tuwai’s captaincy and I want him to one of the players in the team.”

Baber was impressed with the work rate of the new players.

“They have worked hard having quality fitness scores.

“ Beniamino Vota played well, strong around  the tackle. Batinisavu Uluiyata worked hard and this is an opportunity for them to put their hands up for the new World Sevens Series,” he said.

“This weekend we will take nothing for granted. Last year was a tough battle and   the boys playing in front of the home crowd will be a boost for them.”

Fiji Airways Fijian 7s squad: Kalione Nasoko ©, Josua Vakurinabili, Apenisa Cakaubalavu, Beniamino Vota

Sevuloni Mocenacagi, Waisea Nacuqu

Seremaia Tuwai, Napolioni Ratu, Ilikena Vuduolo, Filimoni Botitu, Alasio Naduva

Batinisavu Uluiyata, Vatemo Ravouvou.

Edited by Osea Bola

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