This was confirmed by national coach, Carlos Buzzetti after he named a 24-member squad this afternoon.
“He showed what a great leader he was in the two matches against New Zealand over the weekend. Peni had the respect of the players and his leadership attributes shone on Friday and Sunday,” Buzzetti said.
Finau’s selection has been welcomed by Ba boss, Rishi Kumar who said Finau was the best person for the job.
Finau is one of seven Ba players in the squad. Ronil Kumar, Josai Bukalidi, Osea Vakatalesau, Malakai Tiwa, Malakai Kainihewe and Avinesh Waran are the other players from the Men in Black side included in Buzzetti’s list. Only Robert Wise failed to make the final list.
“From Ba football, this is a huge achievement. I am very happy that seven of our players made it in. I ask all the other players in the squad from the other districts to put their districts aside and play for their country because we all want to see Fiji feature in the World Cup,” Kumar said.
Seven Labasa players have also been included with young sensation, Roy Krishna leading the pack. Thomas Vulivuli, Maciu Dunadamu, Shamal Kumar, Taniela Waqa, Pita Bolaitoga and Alvin Avinesh also caught Buzzetti’s eye in the two OFC Football for Life fundraising matches.
Waisake Sabutu and Ben Amonio are the players from Nadi while Enosi Cava remains the lone representative from Suva. Overseas-based Pita Rabo, Petero Dauniseka, Salesh Kumar and Viliame Toma too have made the cut with Rewa trio, Lorima Dau, Simi Tamanisau and Samuela Vula.
“This isn’t the final list-only 20 players are going to Samoa. I want to keep the selection open, no player in the 24-member squad has his place secured,” Buzzetti said.
He is expected to finalise the team on Friday afternoon before they march into camp on Sunday at the Ba Football Academy.
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