Fiji Water Flying Fijians Welcome New Players Ahead of July Tests

The Fiji Water Flying Fijians have welcomed four debutants into their squad for the July Tests against Scotland and the Wallabies. Coach Mick Byrne emphasizes the youthful energy of these players and aims to guide them without overwhelming pressure. The finalized squad was announced on June 26, with matches slated for July 6 and July 12.

The Fiji Water Flying Fijians are gearing up for their July Tests against Scotland and the Wallabies, and head coach Mick Byrne is bringing in a youthful approach by selecting four debutants. Among these fresh faces are players from the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, including Philip Baselala and Kavaia Tagivetaua, as well as Hawkes Bay’s Sam Wye and former Hurricanes player Salesi Rayasi. Byrne insists that these young players have been chosen for the energy they bring to the team.

Byrne commented, “I think with all young players, you just want energy.” He noted that being young and relatively new to the squad means they are not expected to bear excessive pressure. Instead, he believes it is crucial for coaching staff to allow these newcomers the freedom to thrive without undue expectations placed on them.

“We don’t expect them to be the best player on the ground,” Byrne continued. “We just expect them to come in, understand their role and bring lots of energy, and all these young players do that really well.” The challenge, as he sees it, is for the coaching team to strike a balance, providing guidance without overwhelming these players with expectations.

Some debutants, like Baselala and Rayasi, have openly expressed their aspiration to wear the Flying Fijians jersey in the past. With that dream now on the verge of becoming a reality, Byrne emphasizes the importance of maintaining a perspective of excitement rather than pressure. “They’ve got to see that as an exciting opportunity,” he added, highlighting the need for the coaching staff to cultivate an environment where these players feel valued and encouraged.

On June 26, the finalized squad was announced in Suva, setting the stage for their upcoming preparations. The players based overseas are scheduled to join the team on June 27, just ahead of the highly anticipated matches. The Flying Fijians will take on the Wallabies in their first Test on July 6 in Newcastle, Australia, followed by a match against Scotland on July 12 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This exciting lineup promises a thrilling showcase of talent and energy from the newest members of the squad.

The Fiji Water Flying Fijians are embracing a fresh wave of talent with four debutants set to make their mark in the upcoming July Tests. Coach Mick Byrne highlights the importance of energy these young players bring to the team, with a focus on allowing them the freedom to adapt without pressure. As the squad prepares for exciting matches against the Wallabies and Scotland, the focus will be on encouragement and opportunity rather than expectation.

Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj