Another Little for Fiji 30 April, 2012

Fiji U20 player Michael Little son of All Black legend Walter Little.

New Zealand based Fijian Michael Little arrived in Fiji today to join the Under 20 training squad for the Junior World Championships (JWC) in South Africa, in June. 

Michael is the son of legendary All Black Walter Little and cousin to Fiji and the Pacific region’s highest point scorer Nicky Little. 

Little plays at fly half, inside centre and scrumhalf the same positions his dad and cousin played. He started playing rugby at the tender age of four and was very happy when he was contacted by the Under 20 selectors to join the training squad. 

“It was a dream come true to be able to represent Fiji at the Junior World Championship, because I’ve always thought of myself as Fijian, but my goal does not end there, I intend to play in the 2015 Rugby World Cup either for Fiji or New Zealand but I’d love to play for Fiji” Little said. 

The 19 year old who has paternal links to Yadua in Nadroga was recommended to Fiji Under 20 coach Sale Sorovaki by Adriaan Ferris who is the head coach of New Zealand ITM Cup side Northland. Sorovaki says that with this recommendation, and Little’s experience in playing for the North Harbour Rugby team, he was exactly what they were looking for. 

Sorovaki says the Fiji can only benefit from the level of rugby Little’s been exposed to. 

“Being the first five eight you are the organizer in the team, so you make the first decision on what you have to do as a team, so Michael’s exposure to the that type of level in New Zealand is great for us,” Sorovaki said. 

Little knows that playing against his fellow countrymen will be tough, as he knows a number of the players that have been chosen for defending champions New Zealand but is looking forward to it. 

“It’ll be good; I’ve played a couple of them in club rugby so we know each other’s weaknesses and strengths.” 

The Fiji Under 20’s are pooled with defending JWC champions New Zealand, Wales, and Samoa. 

Sorovaki believes the pool is a tough one and after defeating Wales last year, he believes the Welsh will be back to restore lost glory. 

“We beat Wales last year and on the same token they’ll be very prepared against us, so there is no easy game and all we can do is prepare well” he added. 

The Under 20 march into camp at QEB tomorrow morning.