A cloud of uncertainty surrounds the availability of Semi Kunatani for the Tokyo Olympic Games in Japan from July 23 to August 8.

This was revealed by Fijian 7s head coach Gareth Baber at Ratu Ganilau Park, Savusavu, on Saturday.

“Semi would find it difficult as he’s got two injuries that have ruled him out of a contract in France,” Baber told SUNsports.

Kunatani’s ability to win possession during the restarts had been one of the national 7s team’s trumpcards when they won HSBC World Sevens Series and the 2016 Olympic Games gold medal.

He was in one of the quarantine facilities in the country last week and was expected to play for the LAR Barbarians in the third leg of the Super Sevens Series but failed to appear.

If Kunatani’s unavailability is confirmed then he joins former captain, Paula Dranisinukula who has pulled out of the training squad to concentrate on his military career.

However, Baber was happy with the return of former Fijian 7s captain and utility player, Kalione Nasoko.

Nasoko suffered a career threatening injury and had to undergo an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) operation.

He was undergoing rehab for over a year.

Baber said Nasoko was returning to the level he wanted him to be in.

“Definitely, he’s getting in shape to where he was before so we are keeping an eye on that.”

Top priority

The Welshman said winning the restarts remained a priority for the team.

“Working on our restarts is an important part of our daily training routine. It is critically vital a part when it comes to retaining possession.

“In a sevens game they are six to seven restarts, three scrums and probably one to two lineouts,” he said.

“We also work on out lineouts and scrum but everything depends on who wins the restart”.

Baber said winning the restarts allowed the team to build phases and controlled the momentum of the game.

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