Fiji: make way for the artists
The talented Fijians love to put on a show, even if their Rugby World Cup results suffer.
They are the Sevens Kings with a rare collection of uncut diamonds in the shape of Caucaunibuca, Bobo and the rest of a talented cast blessed with razor-sharp skills and explosive speed. But at 15-a-side their lack of application penalises them. As unpredictable as their devastating sidesteps, the Fijians lit up the first Rugby World Cup, losing in the quarter-finals to a badly shaken French side. But since then Fiji has never progressed beyond the pool stage and even failed to qualify for the 1995 tournament in South Africa. Like their Samoan and Tongan neighbours, the players with a coconut tree emblem on their jerseys, play for the top sides in Europe and New Zealand, and the national selectors are often forced to make do without them. Only the Rugby World Cup sounds the rallying call for this widely flung troupe.
Colours: |
White jersey, black shorts, white socks |
Emblem: |
Coconut tree |
National anthem: |
God Bless Fiji |
IRB world ranking (2006/07): |
11th |
Rugby World Cup record: |
Quarter-finalists 1987 Eliminated at pool stage 1991, 2003 Eliminated in quarter-final play-offs 1999 Not qualified 1995
Scored 345 points, conceded 422 |
Head coach: |
Ilivasi Tabua |
Squad Member List: |
Forwards: Graham Dewes, Alefoso Yalayalatabua, Sunia Koto, Vereniki Sauturaga, Jone Railomo, Henry Qiodravu, Bill Gadolo, Ifereimi Rawaqa, Kele Leawere, Isoa Domolailai, Wame Lewaravu, Jone Qovu, Netani Talei, Semisi Naevo, Sisa Koyamaibole, Aca Ratuva, Akapusi Qera. Backs: Jone Daunivucu, Mosese Rauluni, Nicky Little, Waisea Luveniyali, Seremaia Bai, Seru Rabeni, Kameli Ratuvou, Maleli Kunavore, Vilimoni Delasau, Isoa Neivua, Filimone Bolavucu, Gabiriele Lovobalavu, Norman Ligairi. |
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