Europe-based players join Flying Fijians camp

Europe-based players join Flying Fijians camp

The Fijians were without majority of their Europe based- players as the game against the Barbarians was played outside the World Rugby window. 

Toulon winger Jiuta Wainiqolo is among the France-based players that have joined the Flying Fijians camp. Photo: Supplied.

France-based Fijian players of Jiuta Wainiqolo, Sireli Maqala and Peniasi Dakuwaqa have joined the Flying Fijians squad in Tbilisi, Georgia.

The Flying Fijians take on Georgia next Friday at 8am (Fiji time) and will be shown live on Sky Pacific.

The Fijians were without majority of their Europe based- players as the game against the Barbarians was played outside the World Rugby window.

Flying Fijians head coach, Mick Byrne, believes the team performed extremely well despite their short period of preparation.

“I was very impressed how our players responded to a late arrival in the UK, and the fact that most of the players have travelled overseas to play in a big arena showed their resilience,” said Byrne.

“We didn’t execute as well as we wanted, but I feel we did well and didn’t deviate that much from our game plane.”

Byrne said that he would work closely with overseas clubs to create better relationships in handling player release for future planned test matches.

He added that a confirmed wider travelling team will be confirmed over the weekend as the window for releasing players in Europe opens the opportunity for experienced players to strengthen the squad.

 

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