Fiji Rugby 7s: Baber Looks For Consistency
There is talent in Fiji but hasn’t converted them into international players. This is because there is a difference in terms of the games played at international level and the high fitness level that is required.
Saturday 23 March 2019 | 11:37
Wailevu Blacks defend against Caginiwasa in their Pool 7 clash of the Fiji Bitter Marist 7s at the ANZ Stadium, Suva on March 21, 2019. Wailevu Blacks coached by Tevita Tukania won 24-0. Photo: Ronald Kumar
Fiji Airways Fijian 7s head coach Gareth Baber looks at players who have been playing consistently for the past two years.
Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Baber said: “It’s good to see players playing in the last two years have developed,” he said.
“There is talent in Fiji but hasn’t convert them into international players. This is because there is a difference in terms of the games played at international level and the high fitness level that is required.
“I’m looking for players who have a point of difference at the way they play physically and putting them into our programme. This is to see the way they are, how they maintain their behaviour, standards and not just one of tournament but one period of time.”
Baber said he’s looking for players that have played for different clubs and after two years they’re still playing at that same level.
“That tells me they have those right behaviours and working hard on their game.
“We can utilise them in the squad and see that they can make it through to international rugby.”
Baber also told SUNsports that he has identified about 15 to 20 players who he hopes will make use of their chances.
“I hope in the future 13 to 14 players will be travelling and utilising Fiji Rugby facilities.”
Looking at the tournament, he said: “First day was good with good standards and a lot of quality players around. The top teams are coming through as the elimination round one was very competitive.”
Edited by Leone Cabenatabua
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