Fijian Latui coach Senirusi Seruvakula is looking forward to a solid match with the China Lions on Saturday.

He said the opening round of the Global Rapid Rugby would be a good exposure for the Fijian boys and they were eagerly awaiting the match-up at Laucala Bay, Suva.

“It’s going to be a tough game, especially when we will play against players who have played for Bay of Plenty in the Mitre 10 competition. And that’s good for us,” Seruvakula said.

He believes it would be a baptism by fire for some of the reps, but the experienced players should calm the nerves at the ANZ Stadium.

There has been intense learning as far as understanding the Global Rapid Rugby rules in the past three weeks, but the players are adapting to the changes.

“There are changes, but we understand the rules and we can’t wait for Saturday.”

Seruvakula said the boys have been working on their strength and conditioning and he was happy with what they have achieved so far.

Ready for Rapid Rugby

Team captain Serupepeli Vularika said the players were also ready for another rugby season.

He said the team had bonded well in camp and looked forward to their opening match on Saturday.

“It’s all about one mind, one soul, one heart, so everything is there. The boys are ready. So it’s game on.”

Vularika said the GRR suits the Fijian style of rugby because it was played at a faster pace.

Fijian Latui captain Serupepeli Vularika. Photos: Ronald Kumar

Stags join China Lions

The inaugural China Lions squad is made up predominantly of Bay of Plenty players, however, they have recruited from outside, including Southland’s Greg Pleasants-Tate, Ray Tatafu, and Lio Tosi.

Stags coach Dale MacLeod said it was a blow for club rugby in Southland given the trio would now be out of the province through to mid-June when the GRR competition ends. Fans are in for a rugby treat on Saturday with Tonga A taking on Samoa A at 1pm, the Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors facing Junior Japan on at 3.30pm in the World Rugby Pacific Challenge and the Fijian Latui taking on China Lions at 6.15pm

Tickets are $10 for the grandstand, $5 for embankment and $2 for children under 12 years.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj