Preparations could not have been better for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians.

And by yesterday- two days before the 2019 Rugby World Cup kicks off- head coach John McKee was delighted that he had 31 fit players to pick from,

McKee confirmed the players were in top shape and he would select his match-23 tomorrow for the opening showdown against the Wallabies in Sapporo on Saturday.

McKee highlighted that the side had been hugely focusing on the clarity of their game plan and making sure players understood the basic aspects of it before they move base to Sapporo tomorrow.

“The boys are all fit and are very excited coming into the final days of preparation for our first match,” McKee said

“The focus was on clarity and detail of the game plan and their role as individuals in the game.”

McKee said their defensive role played a key role against big teams such as the Wallabies.

McKee said they would need to make their tackles count and avoid conceding penalties.

And they could not afford to lose any player through dangerous tackles.

McKee also revealed the importance of having quality players on the bench.

“Having a very strong bench, the depth of having quality players is very important for us.”

Yesterday, McKee and some his coaching staff flew to Tokyo as part of the RWC briefing.

The meeting covers administrative and networking opportunities for 2019 and World Rugby.

Squad: Props: Leeroy Atalifo, Campese Ma’afu, Eroni Mawi, Peni Ravai, Manasa Saulo

Hookers: Mesu Dolokoto, Sam Matavesi, Tuvere Vugakoto

Locks: Tevita Cavubati, Leone Nakarawa Api Ratuniyarawa, Tevita Ratuva

Back-rows: Semi Kunatani, Viliame Mata, Mosese Voka, Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Peceli Yato

Halfbacks: Frank Lomani, Nikola Matawalu, Henry Seniloli

First five-eighth: Alivereti Veitokani, Ben Volavola

Centres: Levani Botia, Josh Matavesi, Semi Radradra, Jale Vatubua

Wings/Fullbacks: Vereniki Goneva, Filipo Nakosi, Waisea Nayacalevu, Josua Tuisova, Kini Murimurivalu

Edited by Osea Bola

Feedback: grace.narayan@fijisun.com.fj