The Fiji sevens team has had a major blow as double Olympic Games gold medalist Jerry Tuwai was ruled out of the squad for the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series in Toulouse and London.
The World Series resumes this weekend with the European leg of the journey in France and then England.
According to head coach Ben Gollings, Tuwai is ill and is being given a rest.
Gollings knows too well the depth Tuwai has, as it was evident in the last two rounds of the sevens series.
“I want to support him have better preparation and as we build towards commonwealth games and World Cup he does not need to prove his quality whilst we look at players. He is on standby if we have any injuries,” said Gollings.
Coming back into the folds of things is Semi Kunatani. The former sevens player left the code to play rugby in England five years ago.
Kunatani had a menacing presence on the field and his experience will be needed in what is a virtually new team to the sevens circuit.
“Semi is good for experience and has been working very hard to get this opportunity. He is great around the players and provides good leadership” said Gollings.
Kunatani is added to the forward pack which also includes Josua Vakurinabili, Joseva Talacolo, Tevita Daugunu, Elia Canakaivata and Jerry Matana.
Gollings has also called up Fijian Drua star Napolioni Bolaca. The nippy player is versatile and can alternate well will Waisea Nacuqu at playmaker and scrumhalf.
“Bolaca has been working hard with Fijian Drua and with us. I want to see him play. He’s a great addition to the squad. Obviously there’s adjustments but I’m sure he will adapt well,” said Gollings.
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The Toulouse 7s will take place from May 21 to 23, while the London competition will take place on May 29 and 30.
Fiji Airways Fijian 7s squad
Josua Vakurinabili
Joseva Talacolo
Elia Canakaivata
Tevita Daugunu {c}
Semi Kunatani
Jeremaia Matana
Pilipo Bukayaro
Waisea Nacuqu {v/c}
Napolioni Bolaca
Kaminieli Rasaku
Filipe Sauturaga
Manueli Maisamoa
Vuiviawa Naduvalo
