Dere pleased with squad

alifereti dere

National 7s rugby coach Alivereti Dere has told the Fiji Times that Fiji’s preparation for the Moscow Rugby World Cup 7s is on track.

Dere is happy with the response of the 21 players who are part of the national squad preparing for the tournament which will be held from June 28 to 30 in Moscow, Russia.

As part of the team’s preparations, Dere is focusing on team bonding and on instilling leadership qualities in the players this week.

The former national skipper is satisfied with the performance of players during training runs this week.

“We have been focusing on cohesiveness which is basically working on bonding the players and tonight (last night) we will be having leadership skills training to improve on the decision making area,” he said.

“The players are responding well to the training program and we are satisfied with the progress made by the team.”

Dere said the players would be released from camp today and would return on Monday for the second phase of preparation.

He said the intensity of the training would increase as they approach the Rugby World Cup 7s.

“The whole team is looking forward to the World Cup and we are building well towards the tournament.”

The national side is pooled with defending champion Wales, Tonga and Uruguay in Pool E.

Fiji is the only nation to win the RWC 7s twice, in 1997 and 2005.

Fiji 21-member squad:

Leone Nakarawa, Levani Botia, Nemani Nagusa, Joji Ragamate, Metuisela Talebula, Vereniki Goneva, Samisoni Viriviri, Jasa Veremalua, Waisea Nayacalevu, Watisoni Votu, Alipate Raitini, Ilai Tinai, Jone Vota, Setefano Cakau, Osea Kolinisau, Timoci Matanavou, Donasio Ratubuli, Sakiusa Gavidi, Emosi Mulevoro, Ulaiasi Lawavou, Sunia Kubu.

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