Viriviri recalled by Fiji

Editor

Fiji have recalled reigning World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year Samisoni Viriviri for the Wellington leg of the World Sevens Series.

The Montpellier flyer has not featured for Fiji since moving to the 15-man game, but has struggled for game time in the Top 14.

He links up with a Fijian side that was a little out of sorts in the last two rounds of the World Sevens Series, losing the final of the Plate to the USA last time out in Port Elizabeth.

However they will hope to get back to the top of the standings with good performances in Wellington and Las Vegas, and coach Ben Ryan has named a strong squad for those tournaments.

Joining Viriviri will be joined by Savenaca Rawaca and Osea Kolinisau, who will captain the side.

And despite having spent the season playing 15s, Ryan believes Viriviri is in the right shape to make an instant impact on his return to sevens.

“Sami is a great player, he’s really sharp, I mean really sharp,” said Ryan.

“He just got off the plane and he’s travelling but today (Wednesday) he was talking, he looked like he’s got tonnes of pace.

“He’s got a little bit bigger obviously the conditioning stuff in Montpellier puts some size in him but has not lost any of his pace.”

Fiji will face Portugal, Wales and Australia in their pool in Wellington.

Fiji Sevens Squad for Wellington and Las Vegas

Emosi Mulevoro, Isake Katonibau, Jasa Veramalua, Manueli Laqai, Osea Kolinisau (c), Samisoni Viriviri, Savenaca Rawaca, Jerry Tuwai, Sitiveni Waqa, Vatemo Ravouvou, Viliame Mata, Semi Kunatani