Matana backs team ahead of Singapore

Fiji Airways Fiji 7s men’s captain Jerry Matana believes the team is ready for the HSBC Singapore 7s.

The tournament is from January 31 to February 1, 2026.

Speaking with SUNsports, Matana said they have learnt alot from the HSBC Dubai and CapeTown leg and will bounce back stronger in Singapore.

“We did not play our game in those past two tournaments; its now in the past.

“But, we have prepared during these past few weeks on key areas where we needed to work on,” he said.

Fiji came third in both Dubai and CapeTown legs.

“We made silly mistakes and poor discipline costed us at the crucial times,” he said.

“We have had intense training for these past few weeks.

“The drawing board is where we go back to perfect our craft and work towards our wins.”

Matana added there is high spirits at camp which is a good sign.

“We got new players and old players in the squad.

“It is good to see players bonding and sharing knowledge of the game,” he added.

He said despite the challenges faced through criticism from fans, the team remains positive ahead of the Singapore 7s.

“Critics come and go; we use it as fuel,” he said.

“We look forward to the tournament and we know it will be a good one.

1st test in the Coral Coast 7s 

Matana said the team’s first challenge will be the Coral Coast 7s.

The team is in Pool A with Seattle Barbarians, Nationwide Sydney Nadi 7s and Police Blue.

Fiji 7s is the defending champions of the tournament.

“This is our first test before Singapore 7s.

“There is alot of good teams in the tournament; we won’t take each game lightly,” he said.

The tournament kicks off from January 15-17, 2026.