Nailatikau expresses confidence in team

Fiji’s president, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau today challenged members and team management of the Flying Fijians to turn the disappointment of the Rugby World Cup 2011 in their favour by draw inspiration from it ahead of their Northern Hemisphere tour.

Addressing the 18 players and their 11-member management team during the team’s i-tatau presentation at Govt House today, the head of state told the players to forget about the past and concentrate on giving their best to do Fiji proud reminding them that they can make amends at the RWC2015 in England.

“This is the first tour ahead after the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand last year and the first tour ahead of the next World Cup. I know you can do it,” Nailaitikau told the players.

He also told the players to make use of the November Tour outing to shine not only to bring honour to the country and the supporters but also pave the way for a professional career in rugby offshore.

“For some of you, scouts will be out there watching you. Some have come to Fiji and looked you over and will be following you in the tour so the four matches are all very important for you.

“The opportunity is there for you. Grasp that opportunity and run with it. That’s what we expect of you.”

He called on the players to work together with the overseas-based players who will be joining them in London on 4 November and that it was imperative they follow what the coaches’ instructions.

The players were also farewelled at Wesley Mission Church at Butt Street in Suva with the chairman of Fiji Rugby Union Mosese Tikoitoga reminding players to take pride in wearing the Fiji jersey and be great ambassadors of the country.

Families and friends also attended the church service as well as executives of Rugby House.

FijiLive