Pacific Games middle distance gold medal champion and Olympian Niko Verekauta has been roped in by Fiji Rugby Union coaching director Ilivasi Tabua to be part of the Fiji sevens squad preparing for the 2008/09 World Sevens Series that kick off in November.

Verekauta has been named in Waisale Serevi’s squad to the IRB 7s Series legs to Dubai and South Africa alongside star winger Rupeni Caucaunibuca.

Tabua said the pair was eyed to help a good start to Fiji’s campaign in the IRB World 7s Series.

“Verekauta came to us saying he wants to play rugby. This is a chance to expose a new talent and we have named him in our preliminary squad.”

“Caucau has his reputation and knows where he fits when he joins the squad. All players will undergo tests and training program before we name the final squad to the Dubai and George 7,” the former Fiji and Australian rugby flanker added.

Verekauta is among seven new players in the squad released by the FRU this afternoon.

The players will assemble on Monday in Suva for the first phase of training.

“That’s the first list and we will select the final team from a Fiji provincial 7s tournament before the start of the World 7s Series.”

Fiji 7s squad to assemble in Suva on Monday, September 29:

Forwards: Malakai Ravulo (North Harbour, NZ), Rupeni Nasiga (Counties, NZ), Etonia Naba, Ponipate Kato, Sailosi Rabonaqica, Samu Kunanitu, Iliesa Ratuva, Setefano Cakau, Seremaia Burotu, Lemeki Duidomo, Isei Lewaqai, William Rasileka

Backs: Emosi Vucago, Lepani Nabuliwaqa, Osea Kolinisau, Waisele Beci, Peni Rokodiva, Niumaia Cakacaka, Rupeni Caucau, Eneri Kuru (Tailevu), Ilai Nabanivalu (Ba), Asivorosi Tarakinikini, Watisoni Goneva, Niko Verekauta, Orisi Sareki, Naisa Narukutabua, Iveri Lavo (Navosa).

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