Fiji Water Flying Fijians Announce Squad Updates for Autumn Nations Series

The Fiji Water Flying Fijians have announced three changes to the traveling squad for the upcoming Autumn Nations Series, following a series of injuries to key players.

Unfortunately, Lekima Tagitagivalu, Iosefo Masi, and Ponipate Loganimasi have been withdrawn from the squad due to injury. Replacing them are Kitione Salawa, Joji Nasova, and Setariki Tuicuvu.

FIJI Water Flying Fijians Head Coach, Mick Byrne, expressed his disappointment for the injured players but highlighted the opportunity it presents for others.

“It’s disappointing for players that were named in the squad. It’s always disappointing when injury forces players out of a squad,” Byrne said. “But at the same time, it’s an opportunity for players to come in and take their opportunity.”

Coach Byrne emphasized that the selection process is always challenging, focusing on what is best for the team’s balance.

“Again, as part of these selections, there’s a wide selection base now. It’s never an easy decision choosing players, but it’s around team balance and what’s best for the team. We’re fortunate that we have such a deep pool of players to choose from.”

Byrne spoke about Joji Nasova’s inclusion, who comes in for the injured Ponipate Loganimasi, noting his potential for growth.

“With Loganimasi coming out – it gives Joji Nasova another time, another opportunity. He showed in the PNC that he’s got a big upside to his game. And we’d like to continue growing him and giving him an opportunity to continue to grow within the team.”

The decision to bring in Kitione Salawa for Lekima Tagitagivalu was a tough one, according to Byrne, who pointed to Salawa’s recent development.

“Yeah, I think that was a very tough decision… We just feel that, you know, Kiti’s a player that we feel has got another lot of growth in him. And we saw him turn a corner in PNC around what’s required at this level. And we’d like, you know, we know that he can perform and we’re going to give him another opportunity to come in and take another step in his development.”

The management has full confidence that the new players will step up and make their mark as the team prepares for the challenges ahead in the Autumn Nations Series.

The Flying Fijians depart tomorrow evening for what promises to be an exciting series of test matches in Europe.