Nacewa and Qovu out of RWC 10 June, 2011

Personal commitmetns keep Isa Nacewa (left) and Jone Qovu out of RWC.

Citing personal commitments Europe based players Isa Nacewa and Jone Qovu have today both respectfully declined the invitation to be part of the Flying Fijians squad for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. 

Despite ruling himself out of selection Leinster’s Nacewa, the first overseas player to be voted Ireland’s player of the year, believes the Flying Fijians will be very competitive at the Rugby World Cup and wished the team the very best. 

“My pregnant wife and my twin girls are my number one priority at the moment, however I wish the Fiji team and management all the best in the exciting year that follows and especially at the Rugby World Cup,” Nacewa said. 

“Fiji has a competitive team at the World Cup and one that will go a long way.” 

Domestic commitments have also ruled out Racing Metro 92’s Jone Qovu from RWC participation.

“My wife is pregnant and my main focus now is looking after her,” Qovu said. 

“I am at ease with this decision as I know there are more than enough players around who can replace me.” 

Flying Fijians coach Sam Domoni, while disappointed with the news, was pragmatic about the reasons given. 

“Players, like Nacewa and Qovu, need to look after their young families welfare and that’s a priority for any player,” Domoni said. 

“The decision they’ve made is respected and we now need to move forward as a team with the players we have got.” 

The Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) training squad switches camp this Sunday from Suva to Sigatoka as PNC preparations get into gear. The Flying Fijians will play their first game against Tonga on 2 July at Lautoka’s Churchill Park.