Police winger Rusiate Matai has joined the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s extended squad.

This was confirmed by head coach Ga­reth Baber during training at Albert Park, Suva.

“A few players that were part of the local teams have joined the extended squad for train­ing,” he said.

“I will keep a close watch on them in terms of continuity and know that it will be a chal­lenge for these players. I also want to see how they react to our environment and taking them for training sessions alongside the experienced ones.”

Matai was the toast of the Police side when he scored twice in their 41-17 Ratu Sukuna Bowl triumph over the Republic of Fiji Military Forces at the ANZ Stadium, Suva last Novem­ber.

Last month, the speedster was moved to rover and helped Police win the McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s where he also received the Jonah Lomu medal for being the tournament’s top try scorer.

Baber said they have received a lot of positive remarks from the public which has boosted their preparations.

“I would concentrate on that and obviously as young men, you would want to do right for your country.

“These players come under a huge amount of scrutiny and pressure and when we know the support is always there from our fans we would rather concentrate on that more.”

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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