The Fiji 7s rugby representative who has been accused by family members of murdered escaped convict, the late Josefa Baleiloa, could still make the cut for the first leg of the IRB World Sevens Series says the Fiji Rugby Union.

FRU chief executive officer Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua said they would act once the Suva based utility, who has been an instrumental 7s campaigner, was found guilty in his involvement in Baleiloa’s death.

“It is serious and we appreciate the concern raised,” Ratu Timoci said

“We do not condone unprofessional actions of players because we have a code of conduct to follow and we expect players to abide by it,” he said

“We will not allow any player bringing disrepute to Fiji Rugby,” he added.

“But in the meantime, he is still part of the Fiji squad to the Dubai and George tournaments that will be announced tomorrow,” the former national rep added.

“The board will make its decision accordingly once we receive a formal confirmation against the player,”

The Suva based player has been accused by the late Baleiloa’s family for having a hand in the brutal death of the escaped convict who died last month after being in a coma for over two months as a result from the beatings he received from his arrest.

Baleiloa’s family lawyer Sevuloni Valenitabau claimed on local television, two days ago, that the player was part of the team of Prison Wardens and Police officers that arrested Baleiloa before his death.

The Baleiloa family has also written to the Fiji Rugby Union calling for the omission of the veteran seasonal 7s player from the Fiji sevens squad.

The player who was not part of the initial squad announced by Fiji Rugby Union coaching director Ilivasi Tabua and 7s coach Waisale Serevi forced his way into the team after an impressive performance at the Provincial 7s in Lautoka last weekend.

When contacted yesterday the Fiji Prisons Services, opted to comment on the issue today as Commissioner of Prisons Ioane Naivalurua is said to be out of the country.

Fiji Police spokesperson Atunaisa Sokomuri said names of the personnel involved in the death investigation has been forwarded for further deliberation.

Meanwhile, Serevi is expected top name his 12-member team in Suva this morning.

Fijilive

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