Fiji President blesses 7s gladiators

Fiji President, His Excellency Ratu Epeli Nailatikau told the departing 12-member Digicel Fiji 7s team to “represent Fiji well” in the opening leg of the 2012/2013 HSBC World 7s Series on the Gold Coast, Australia next weekend.

Addressing the team during their i-tatau at Government House yesterday, Nailatikau commended the players and the management on their preparations, but said the “main thing is your performance.”

He also wished them well in their games.  

“Play to the best of your ability because you are representing your country and everyone back home.

“The ceremony itself signifies that you’re ready to go and fly the Fiji flag on behalf of everyone here.”

Nailatikau also told the players he has every confidence in their capabilities.

Wardens skipper Lepani Botia will lead the 12-member team as captain. He will be assisted by Osea Kolinisau.

The team departs Fiji Tuesday for the Gold Coast 7s where they have been grouped with Australia, Scotland and Tonga in Pool B.

Fiji begins their title defense against Scotland at 2.42pm (Fiji Time) on Sunday, then they take on Tonga (5.58pm) before wrapping up pool proceedings against Australia (9.46pm).

Day two of competition starts with the bowl quarterfinal at 12.30pm on Monday.

Fiji 7s team (*denotes debutants) : 1. *Apisai Domolailai 2. Lepani Botia (Captain) 3. *Ulaiasi Lawavou  4. Samu Saqiwa 5. *Manueli Laqai 6. Joji Ragamate 7. *Samisoni Viriviri 8. Osea Kolinisau (VC) 9. *Leone Tabuarua 10. Ilai Tinai 11. *Alipate Ratini 12. *Apisalome Waqatabu.

By Lavenia Vuadreu