The fate of the Flying Fijians progressing to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup will be based on the outcome of their two opening matches.

The Vern Cotter-coached side take on Wales on September 10 in their Pool C opener in Bordeaux, France. The Fijians rest for seven days before they face Australia on September 17 in Saint-Etienne.

When contacted yesterday Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer John O’Connor said it was a fair draw.

“We’re also happy with the venues as well and it’s now a matter of preparing well and to be competitive at the World Cup,” he said.

O’Connor said the only issue they had if they were to rest less than five days before the next game.

“Now, that’s not going to happen and it’s very fair,” he added.

O’Connor reiterated that their two opening games against Wales and Australia were crucial but gives them time to see where they stand and what is needed to be done.

The Australians opened their RWC campaign on September 9 against the top qualifying team from Europe in Saint-Denis.

With a 13-day rest after the Australia clash, the Flying Fijians play Europe’s top qualifier on September 30 at Bordeaux.

The Flying Fijians final pool game will be on October 8 in Toulouse.

The 2023 RWC opener sees hosts France take on the All Blacks at the Stade de France in Paris on September 8.

“Everyone who likes rugby dreams of seeing this game,” France captain Charles Ollivon said of the match against the All Blacks.

“Kicking off our World Cup against the All Blacks, there’s no equivalent.”

Eddie Jones coached- England’s opening match of the World Cup will be against Argentina on September 9. Wales take on Fiji, against whom they suffered a pool-stage shock in 2007, on the same weekend.

Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj