Bari In Fijiana 7’s List

Savusavu lass Verenaisi Bari is the only newcomer in the star-studded Fijiana sevens team for the last two HSBC series.

Bari, a product of the Vodafone Vanua Championship is one of the three new players named along the 10 Olympic bronze medallists yesterday in Suva.

Coach Saiasi Fuli said: “Bari is one of the promising players and has been tirelessly working hard for a spot in the team. As a player, she has developed a lot while in camp and will certainly shine in the upcoming international meets.”

Olympian Laisani Likuceva who has recovered from her injury is also on the list.

Fuli maintained his set of core players, led by captain Rusila Nagasau. Vaisiti Solikoviti, Vani Buleki, Sesenieli Donu and Raijieli Daveua who will provide strength in the forwards along with speedsters Reapi Uluinasau, Lavena Cavuru and Aloesi Nakoci.

“This is a tough selection for me after weeks of hard work and perseverance from the players.”

“The next two legs are crucial for us in terms of building the right combination and platform for the Commonwealth Games and World Cup.”

Meanwhile the Fijiana sevens team fly out on Saturday for Canada and will be away for five weeks for the two remaining HSBC sevens series – Langford on April 30 to May 1 and then the Toulouse meet on May 20-22.

They will be based in Paris for two weeks before heading to Toulouse.

“After Langford, we head straight to the training camp at Marcoussis, I think is the training centre for the French rugby team.”

Despite not participating in the Spain and Dubai legs, Fuli indicated that the local competitions were good build up for the side.

They played in six local tournaments, three Super 7s series, Nawaka, Marist and warm up matches against New Zealand where they played six games.

“It was good warm up to select our players. We monitored them individually and collectively. That platform gave us the overview of what is best for the team, also in terms of selection,” he said.

“It was to our advantage. It’s a different pool now with New Zealand back.”

For the Langford leg the Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s is in Pool C together with England, USA and New Zealand.

Australia lead Pool A with Canada, Spain and Mexico while Ireland takes in-charge of Pool B with France, Brazil and Japan.