Nacuqu replaces Kaka at Coral Coast 7s

Waisea Nacuqu has been named as the replacement for Gillies Kaka in the McDonald’s Mike Friday Select 7s squad, following Kaka’s withdrawal on medical grounds.

Kaka was recently ruled out after medical advice confirmed he requires surgical treatment, bringing an unfortunate end to his involvement in the upcoming campaign. While his absence is felt, organisers are delighted to welcome one of Fiji’s most electric finishers into the squad.

Meanwhile, national sevens forward Ilikimi Torosi has returned to the 2026 McDonald’s Mike Friday Select 7s squad, following a formidable performance in the 2025 tournament that saw him play a decisive role in the team’s run to the final.

Torosi was instrumental during last year’s campaign, most notably delivering a match-winning try in extra time against Samoa, a moment that will be remembered as one of the defining highlights of the tournament. His composure under pressure, physicality, and ability to rise in the biggest moments underlined his value to the Select 7s concept.

Head Coach Mike Friday welcomed Torosi’s return, pointing to his impact when it mattered most.

“Ilikimi is a big-game player. What he did in 2025 speaks for itself — stepping up in extra time against Samoa and taking us to the final shows his mentality, courage, and quality. He earned his place back in this squad.”

Torosi’s return adds continuity, experience, and proven match-winning ability to a Select 7s squad once again built around elite performers from Fiji and around the world. His 2025 performances embodied the spirit of the team — fearless, physical, and committed to attacking rugby.

Speaking on his selection, Torosi said he was proud to pull on the jersey again.

“Last year was special, and I’m grateful for the trust shown in me again. I’m hungry to go even further in 2026 with the team.”

The McDonald’s Mike Friday Select 7s will compete at the 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s, where fans can expect the return of familiar heroes alongside new stars, as the team looks to build on its strong 2025 campaign and push for the title. 

McDonald’s Mike Friday Select: Harry Mcnulty (Ireland), Luke Treharne (Wales), Matai Leuta (USA), Semi Kunatani (Fiji), Jerry Tuwai (Fiji), Terry Kennedy (Ireland), Jordan Conroy (Ireland), Manueli Maisamoa (Fiji), Perry Baker (USA), Malakai Tobau (Fiji), Sevuloni Mocenacagi (Fiji), Waisea Nacuqu (Fiji), Akuila Momo (Fiji), Ilikimi Torosi (Fiji). 

Sprint added to Coral Coast 7s tourney

A 100m event has been added to the McDonalds Coral Coast 7s progamme. 

Tournament organisers confirmed that the introduction of the Shangri-La Yanuca Island Fiji Fastest Player Sprint will take place on Saturday. 

The sprint will invite the fastest players from all participating teams across the three divisions; the youth division will see 16 competitors, 10 participants from the women’s division and 24 men. 

Each participating team across all divisions is invited to nominate their single fastest player.

The winner of each division will receive a premium prize generously donated by the official resort of the tournament, Shangri-La Yanuca Island Fiji Resort, reinforcing the resort’s commitment to rewarding excellence across youth, women’s, and men’s rugby.

Shangri-La Yanuca Island Fiji Resort general manager, Francis Lee, welcomed the addition race.

“We are proud to support an initiative that celebrates performance, inclusivity, and excitement across all divisions of the game. The Fastest Player Sprint is a fantastic addition to the tournament, and we are delighted to reward the winners with a Shangri-La experience that reflects excellence both on and off the field,” Lee told Fiji Coral Coast 7s Media. 

The Coral Coast 7s will be from January 15-17 at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka. Admission is free.