Fiji players shine in France ahead of squad naming

The France-based Flying Fijians players continue to shine for their respective clubs during last weekend’s Top 14 competition.

Players like Pita Gus Sowakula, Josua Vici, Nathan Hughes, Wame Naituvi and Sireli Maqala found themselves on the scoring list while the rest of the players put on a sterling performance.

In the only setback, Vici and Vilimoni Botitu copped yellow cards.

Maqala scored two tries for Bayonne in their 60-26 win over Montauban who had Josua Vici scoring one of their tries. On a positive note, tighthead prop Luke Tagi came in as an impact player for Bayonne.

Despite going down 17-20 to Montpellier, Sowakula scored a try for Clermont while Alivereti Loaloa played well at centre.

Hughes showed he had speed as he scored a try for Racing 92 as they walloped Castres 52-21. Strong running Vinaya Habosi was at centre as he took on Botitu.

The classy second five-eight was yellow carded while Vuate Karawalevu was on the wing. Racing brought in flanker Lekima Tagitagivalu and Josua Tuisova in the encounter.

Speedy winger Peniasi Dakuwaqa was at his best for Stade Francais as they beat Seta Tuicuvu’s Toulon 46-27.

USA Perpignan moved Peceli Yato to lock with Alivereti Duguivalu at centre and starting on the bench was Eneriko Buliruarua as they lost 28-32 to Jiuta Wainiqolo’s Lyon.

Veteran flanker Levani Botia was at his usual best for La Rochelle as they beat Pau 20-6.

Most of these France-based players are expected to make the Flying Fijians squad for the Rugby Championship in July where they face Wales, England and Scotland in Europe.

In an earlier interview Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne said selections are completely open as they are monitoring all the players.

“Yes, our head of Athletic performance has been following the progress of the European based- players, minutes played, health and so on.

“Also we’re communicating with the clubs if deemed necessary,” said Byrne.

He is expected to name the Flying Fijians squad anytime this week.