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Ryder unseated from Fiji squad

Wednesday 30th April 2008

William Ryder: Dropped

Out-of-form William Ryder has been dropped from Fiji's Sevens squad for the forthcoming tournaments in England and Scotland.

Ryder is but one casualty of Fiji's 'slump' in form, which has seen them lose two consecutive semi-finals to runaway leaders New Zealand, and two quarter-finals before that.

Fiji team coach Josateki Savou said Ryder had to shape up or ship out, and the latter has happened, with Mosese Volavola and Epeli Vuniwaqa other high-profile casualties of the reshuffle.

National coaching director and selector Ilivasi Tabua said Ryder's omission was due solely to form.

"He needs time to get back into shape," Tabua said to the Fiji Times.

There are four new comers in the side with Timoci Vakadranu, Kolinio Vasuilagi, and Apenisa Ratuyadra being named in the forwards while Vereimi Vilitati comes into the backline to replace Ryder.

Fiji Sevens squad:

Forwards: Marika Vunibaka, Viliame Maya, Setefano Cakau, Semisi Naevo, Timoci Vakadranu, Kolinio Vasuilagi, Apenisa Ratuyadra.

Backs: Emosi Vucago, Tomasi Mawi, Naisa Narukutabua, Lepani Nabuliwaqa, Nasoni Roko, Timoci Matanavou, Vereimi Vilitati