A top finish by the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s reps in London and Paris is critical if they are to win the 2018/19 HSBC World Sevens Series.

They are quietly confident that it’s mission possible. The Gareth Baber-coached side is three points behind series leaders USA and to win the series, they must:

• Win both the London and Paris 7s; or
• Win either the London or Paris tournament and reach the Cup final of the other.

When contacted last night Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer John O’Connor said Baber would name his squad next week.

“They have to go through all the medical assessments of the injured players and also those who are down with illness before they determine the team that is to travel to the final leg,” he said. “They will do all that this weekend before the squad is announced next week.”

During training on Wednesday, Baber said the injured players were recovering well. He highlighted that Jerry (Tuwai) and captain Paula (Dranisinukula) had progressed well along with Mesulame Kunavula on his knee injury.

However, they are closely monitoring Waisea Nacuqu who suffered a fractured collarbone during the Sydney 7s in February and was ruled out for three to four months along with Isoa Tabu who suffered a fractured wrist during the Singapore 7s. Both players are back training with the team and are involved in their contact sessions.

Baber currently has 16 players in his extended training squad.

Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj