Sevens stars return for Fiji Hong Kong blast

Talented veterans Dale Tonawai, Setefano Cakau, David Batiratu and Osea Kolinisau have forced their way back into the Digicel Fiji Sevens team for the Hong Kong and Australia legs of the HSBC Sevens World Series.

Coach Iliesa Tanivula believes the inclusion of the four will give the side a valuable edge for the vital rounds as the second half of the Series gets underway.

“All four players give the side experience at the highest levels, which will be invaluable in what is undoubtedly the pinnacle tournament in the World Series - Hong Kong,” Tanivula said. 

“Dale (Tonawai) and Batiratu have been performing exceptionally well in recent local tournaments and so both deserve to be there on talent alone, regardless of their experience, as do Cakau and Kolinisau, who’ve been in regular contact and have shown great commitment in training.”

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Meanwhile, Emosi Vucago has been stood down as captain to allow him to focus on his own game.

“We’d like Emosi to play his usual game unfettered from the burdens and pressures of captaining the team,” said Tanivula, who has named Tonawai and Votu as co-captains.

“Votu and Dale both command the respect of the players and having them as co-captains means they share the workload and are more able to concentrate on their individual game in the positions they play.”

The Fiji team will shift from Suva to Sigatoka for their final camp before departing on Monday morning for Hong Kong.

Digicel Fiji squad: Seremaia Burotu, Watisoni Votu (co-captain), Setefano Cakau, Dale Tonawai, Waqabaca Kotobalavu, Nikola Matawalu, Emosi Vucago, Mitieli Nacagilevu, Ilai Tinani, David Batiratu, Joeli Lutumailagi, Osea Kolinisau. Non-travelling reserves: Kelemedi Bola, Livai Ikanikoda, Sailosi Rabonaqica, Nemani Nagusa

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