Warriors new signing Netani Talei has been handed a dream place in the Rugby World Cup after being named in Fiji’s 30-man squad.
Fiji have named a forward-based squad – with a 17-13 split in favour of the pack – and Sixways new boy Talei is amongst those who can now look forward to a trip to France.
Fiji have been drawn in Pool B at the World Cup along with Australia, Wales, Canada and Japan. They will need to finish as one of the top two teams in their pool to reach the knock-out stage, which is likely to require a win over either Australia or Wales.
But forwards coach Greg Mumm is confident the Fijians will be able to compete for a place in the quarter-finals, which they have not reached since the inaugural event in 1987.
And he has promised Talei and his fellow forwards that hey can look forward to having five sessions a week over the next six weeks in the build-up to the World Cup.
“Out forwards will be more competitive,” he said. “We can defeat Wales as we have got the size up front and our forwards have got a good height advantage.
“If Fiji can dominate possession I’m confident we can upset Wales and we can also match the wallabies.”
Fiji open their World Cup campaign against Japan in Toulouse on September 12.
Forwards: Graham Dewes, Alefoso Yalayalatabua, Sunia Koto, Vereniki Sauturaga, Jone Railomo, Henry Qiodravu, Bill Gadolo, Iferemi Rawaqa, Kele Leawere, Isoa Domolailai, Wame Lewaravu, Jone Qovu, Netani Talei, Semisi Naevo, Sisa Koyamaibole, Aca Ratuva, Akapusi Qera.
Backs: Jone Dunivucu, Mosese Rauluni, Nicky Little, Waisea Luveniyali, Seremaia Bai, Seru Rabeni, Kameli Ratuvou, Maleli Kunavore, Vilimone Delasau, Isoa Neivua, Filimone Bolavucu, Gabiriele Lovobalavu, Norman Ligairi.