I’m always available for Fiji: Dewes November 02, 2009
New Zealand-based Graham Dewes is looking forward to representing Fiji at the Northern hemisphere tour later this month.
Dewes who has his Fijian ties to the island of Rotuma said it was always an honour for him to be called and that he would always be available for his country.
“I’m so proud of my Fijian roots and being called us is always an honour,” he said.
Dewes joined the 10 local players in the Flying Fijians team today at the University of the South Pacific Gym for a sweaty workout under the watchful eyes of Fiji Rugby Union trainer Naca Cawanibuka.
“This is my first time out with the local boys and just seeing the excitement in their eyes has gotten me excited.”
“Fijian players are a talented bunch, I love the local boys because they are so easy and fun to be around.”
Dewes made his debut for Fiji in the Rugby World Cup in France in 2007. That behind him, he says he has a lot more to prove and give back to his country.
“The World Cup is behind me, I start from scratch in this tour. I’m really looking forward to getting out there with the rest of the team. I can’t wait to meet up with the rest of the overseas boys.”
“I promise to do my best for my country.”
Flying Fijians coach Sam Domoni said he was happy that Dewes was in camp.
“Its really encouraged the local boys, Graham is a star player, he has proved himself and I am happy to have him here even if its just for a couple of days before we fly out.”
The 10-local players are in their last week of camp before they fly out on Friday to the United Kingdom.
Fiji plays their first Test against Scotland on November 14 at Murrayfield, Edinburgh. They tackle Ireland a week later on November 21 at Royal Dublin Society Ground.
The three- match tour concludes with their last test against Romania on November 28.