Plucky Police Blue playmaker Livai Ikanikoda has made it back to the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team after eight years of trying.

The former Suva Grammar School halfback was named last night by coach Gareth Baber in the 14-member squad for the Hong Kong and Singapore 7s.

The Lomanikoro, Rewa, native made his debut at the 2011/2012 HSBC World Sevens Series at the Gold Coast 7s in Australia, which Fiji won.

On his return, he suffered a severe leg injury which threatened to end his career, but he went through

rehab and worked on trying to win back his spot in the national 7s team.

Speaking to the Fiji Sun last night, Police Blue manager Aminisitai Seru said Ikanikoda’s inclusion was going to be a huge relief for halfback Jerry Tuwai.

“Livai is to share the burden with Jerry and that is going to be good for us,” he said.

“The Police rugby 7s team is grateful to the Fiji Rugby Union for recognising one of our top players and giving him this opportunity.”

Despite the national team being hit with injuries, Baber has managed to select a formidable side with a new player in the mix.

Young talent Napolioni Ratu has also made the cut in the 14-member team.

Apart from Kalione Nasoko and Waisea Nacuqu, Baber has also dropped Mesulame Kunavula.

With a solid week on the training track, Baber says his players are looking forward to the challenge.

“All players have prepared well and have shown focus so far and all are fit and ready to go.”

Edited by Epineri Vula