Kolinisau, Rawaqa back in Fiji 7s fold

Lautoka fullback Taniela Rawaqa and Suva winger Osea Kolinisau are set to return to the World 7s Series arena soon following their inclusion in a reduced 24-man Fiji 7s squad announced today by Fiji coach Alifereti Dere.

The duo makes a return from injuries sustained during the USA 7s in Las Vegas in February, this year.

Also back are Fiji 7s skipper Setefano Cakau, Levani Botia, Joji Raqamate, Timoci Vakadranu, Ilai Tinai and Niko Verekauta all survivors from the last series in a squad which includes Sailosi Rabonaqica, Apisalome Waqatabu and Samuela Saqiwa all of whom have featured in the World 7s Series at one time or another.

The notable absentee from the squad is Watisoni Votu who has been eyed for the Europe November tour.

The players will march in for a 4-day camp beginning next Tuesday at the QEB Barracks in Nabua as preparation begins to defend the Gold Coast 7s crown which starts on October 13-14 in Australia,

Team manager Semi Rogoyawa said the camp will focus on classroom sessions where players are taught different modules including time management, anti-doping, diet and injury care.

"Players who are in the reduced squad are still part of the extended training squad which the coaches will be drawing from during the series. They will also be included in the training squad for World Cup 7s next year so they have are stil in the picture," Rogoyawa said.

7s squad:
S. Cakau (Namosi), L. Botia (Namosi), S. Rabo (Nadroga), A. Domoilailai (Nadroga), U. Lawavou (Nadroga), T. Vakadranu (Naitasiri), S. Saqiwa (Nadi), Peni Ravai (Nadroga), J. Raqamate (Namosi), I. Tinai (Namosi), O. Kolinisau (Suva), N. Verekauta (Namosi), Leone Taburua (Suva), Samisoni Viriviri (Nadroga), A. Ratini (Tailevu), A. Waqatabu (Nadroga), M. Laqai (Tailevu), L. Ratumuri (Nadi), M. Varamusu (Ovalau), J. Tuiova (Nadi), D. Rawaqa (Lautoka), D. Ratubuli, L. Mau, A. Druma (Tailevu)

FijiLive