Go for win: Radradra

Flying Fijians utility back Semi Radradra says, he is ready to don the No.13 jumper in their Nations Championship opener against Wales in Cardiff on July 4.

Speaking to SUNsports on Wednesday night, Radradra said there’s a lot of young talent playing in the midfield.

“For me, it’s a big role to cover for 13. It’s up to the coach and if he picks me to play 13, I will do my best to make the boys proud.”

Playing at centre is Radradra’s preferred position but for the past years he had been playing on the wing because the position was taken up by former Flying Fijians captain Waisea Nayacalevu. Now Nayacalevu has retired and it opens up the opportunity for Radradra to move back to his position.

Radradra said discipline would be a key focus for the team.

“That’s been a big issue on a few of our campaigns. The boys are now preparing. This is a big match for Fiji going to Wales as a Tier 1 nation.

“First of all, we’re just looking forward to getting together as a team. A few of us on this side of the world have been training individually.

“Most of the boys from Europe have just finished their competitions, so they’re having a good rest. Some of them don’t have any rest, so they are coming straight back into it.

“We’re just looking forward to getting there on Friday, meeting up with the other men and getting our game plan ready for next week.”

Radradra, who now plays in Japan, said his focus was on arriving fit and helping the team play their brand of rugby.

“It’s exciting that it’s the first time for Fiji to be known as a Tier 1 nation. Getting this opportunity also comes with responsibility, so I’m excited and looking forward to going out there and doing the work.”

He said the team’s plans for the Wales match would become clearer after their meetings.

“When we get our team meetings done, everything will be clear. But same as usual, we’re there to win, we’re there to play to win, nothing short of that. It’s really important to bring that.”

Radradra also called on Fijians living in Europe and around the world to support the team as they play three matches in Europe as a Tier 1 nation.

“I have no doubt that you will all fill the crowds and make it as close to Fiji as it can be,” he added.