The Fiji Airways Fijian 7s squad to defend their New Zealand Sevens title in Hamilton today had been announced with forward Paula Dranisinukula getting the nod.

Head coach Gareth Baber believes the inclusion of the powerhouse prop would strengthen the side.

Rookie playmaker Terio Tamani and forward Josua Vakurinabili are also making their first appearances in the 2018/19 HSBC World Sevens Series with Apenisa Cakaubalavu on standby as the 13th man.

Baber said the final selection was fiercely competitive as he kept the players waiting until the final hour to make the announcement.

“The team have prepared well and it’s good to have two players of Paula and Josua’s quality back in the squad,” he said.

“It was a tough decision to place Apenisa as 13th man as he has trained well and is working hard to fight for selection.”

In today’s pool games Fiji play Wales at 10.52am, Argentina at 2.42pm and Australia at 6.52pm.

“The team are under no illusions they’ve got their work cut out for them.

“The players are aware that it’s six finals we’ve got to play, so we’ll prepare well today, recover and get ourselves in the right state for the morning.”

OUR SQUAD FOR HAMILTON

Kalione Nasoko (Captain), Paula Dranisinukula, Sevuloni Mocenacagi, Meli Derenalagi, Mesulame Kunavula, Josua Vakurinabili, Seremaia Tuwai, Waisea Nacuqu, Terio Tamani, Vilimoni Botitu, Aminiasi Tuimaba, Alasio Naduva,  Apenisa Cakaubalavu (13th player).

– Edited by Osea Bola

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