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FIJI WINS HONG KONG 7's 2012

Victorious 7s team to get highest payout ever

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Click on the link to watch Fiji fans celebrating the win!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6J6lyyEWs7w&feature=share

DAY 1 : RECOLLECTION

by Semi Leiwere from HK

BULA MEMBERS- We have arrived here in HK So Ko Stadium. Day 1 was full of drama- with so much free wirefire available at the grounds which caused collapse to the ones dedicated to the media people.

Hence our apology for not providing any update.

There were 49, 000 people at the Stadium which is the highest ever the number of people.

Fiji won their 1st game against Scotland 39 to 5 as you might have found out. Good start for the campaign for their quest in this year's competition. If I may say they looked sleek in their attack, ball retention and but still needs some improvement on defence.

What to expect on Day 2-

Fiji is playing France at 13.32 HK time. Then will play Australia in their last pool game at 18.46.

Other interesting games that we might want to see or capture today are -11.20 England vs Kenya; 13.54 NZ vs Wales; 14.16 Samoa vs Argentina; (Pool Decider for Fiji's Pool 15.44 France vs Scotland)

Some background facts of the Tournament:

Total Prize Money - US$150,000

Breakdown- US$100,000 Cup Champion; Cup Runner Up - US$25,000; Semi Finalist US$12,500 (each)

Country with Most wins - Fiji - 12; NZ - 10; Australia - 5; England - 4.

Day 2 (24 games) - Upon the completion of the Pool matches the top two teams from each pool plus two next best teams will go through to the quarter finals in each competition.

Day 3 (25 games) - Qtr finals, semi final and finals of each of the Qualifier, Bowl, Plate and Cup Competition.

Have a nice day! Later from Hong Kong.

Fijian X-man

Maciu Malo
Saturday, March 17, 2012

FORMER Flying Fijians head coach Ilivasi Tabua is banking on twinkle-toed Joji Ragamate to be Fiji's x-factor at the Hong Kong and Japan legs of the HSBC IRB Sevens World Series.

The former Australian 7s rep and Wallabies forward believes Fiji needs an x-factor in Happy Valley - something the national 7s team has been missing since the exit of Waisale Serevi and William Ryder.Tabua said the x-factor played a huge role and Ragamate fitted the bill to continue from where Serevi and Ryder left off.

Ragamate has been instrumental in Wardens' success on the local circuit and was named best player at the Coral Coast 7s by Serevi and David Campese.

"The selectors and the coaches have selected the best. And you only pick from what you have," Tabua said. "As a coach, you need to know your players, know what they bring into the team and select the balance of what you want, to be strong defensively, aggressively moving forward and very attacking.

"And we must have the x-factor in every game. This is what we want for Fiji to win." The national side departs on Monday for Hong Kong.

Tabua said: "For me personally, Ragamate is the only x-factor in the team."

The former national 15s flanker said for the x-factor to do well, the team must have exceptionally good players in each position.

"If you look in the past when we have won quite convincingly, we had hard aggressive forwards, very good in defence, very good on the groundwork and in the backline we would have a rover who is very direct when running and the x-factor who determines the play, dictates the game and changes the phases of the play," he said.

"If you draw a lot of attention to the x-factor, you have other players to play but if you don't have an x-factor, other teams will easily shut Fiji down.

"The coach will need to profile his players, identify who is stronger in each position, pick a communicator, a tactician, a tactical thinker and, of course, a speedster.

"You need a scavenger, aggressive, go-forward and aerial-game forward to win quality balls for the backs."

Tabua said the halfback must have good passing skills and be a good communicator, a game breaker at flyhalf and an x-factor who has the vision and the kick.

The rover, he said, must be a direct runner who is decisive in what he does to create overlaps for the wing.

"We need a speedster who is very strong defensively and in attack to suit what the team wants and we must select accordingly to the players that we have and mix this according to the team we play against," he added.

Dream run for new cap

Emoni Narawa
Thursday, March 15, 2012

HE was only 12 when his mother made her last wish to see Isikeli Vuruna play at the biggest sevens tournament in Hong Kong.

She died not long after. Twelve years later yesterday, her wish came true.

Vuruna, a naval officer who plays for the Navy club, was named in coach Alivereti Dere's final 12-member Fiji sevens squad for the HSBC Sevens World Series in Hong Kong and Japan.

His ecstatic family celebrated the announcement of his selection, saying it was through his hard work and determination

His elder sister, Lusia Brennan, said their mum Filo would be proud had she been alive today.

"Tui (as he is commonly known to the family) is very athletic, even from a young age," Mrs Brennan said.

"He will always give his best when he wants to achieve something. I remember our mum once told him that she wanted to see him play in Hong Kong one day, this was when Tui captained the Labasa soccer team when he was young.

"Our mum passed away while Tui and I were there. Our mum's wish was a kind of inspiration for him and we are happy for what he has achieved."

Vuruna was nursing a boil yesterday and missed the Digicel-sponsored team's photo shoot.

Dere said speed was something the team had lacked.

"I wanted speed from the team and we now got players such as Vuruna, (Joeli) Lutumailagi and Joji (Ragamate) who are speedsters," Dere said.

FIJI: Setefano Cakau (c), Levani Botia Veivuke, Jimilai Naikadawa, Nemani Nagusa, Waisea Vuidravuwalu Nayacalevu, Ilai Tinai, Metuisela Talebula, Nikola Matawalu, Lutumailagi, Avenisi Vasuinubu, Vuruna, Ragamate.

7s big boots to fill

Kameli Rakoko
Tuesday, March 13, 2012

NIKOLA Matawalu and Joji Raqamate will have big boots to fill in the absence of tough guy Emosi Vucago.

Vucago's cool and steadying influence was sorely missed as the Fiji Barbarians succumbed to Army in the final of the Marist Sevens tournament last Saturday.

Matawalu is the more experienced of the two, but the son of the late Methodist minister and namesake, has a decision-making problem that also had troubled Vucago when he first came into the national team. The problem is he likes to sing solo in the choir.

This problem seems to be prevalent in many rugby players because of the confidence or overconfidence they have with their upper body strength and prefer body contact all the time.

They don't make good team players and err on decision-making on when to run and when to pass and when to kick.

The Ra man is an exceptional player but has to discipline himself to vary tactics and not become predictable with his solo efforts of trying to win the game by himself.

As the skipper, Setefano Cakau, is a man of few words and leads by example the onus is on the other team members especially his 'tauvus' from Nadroga and Vanua Levu to rein him in line on the field and not take off into one of his fishing expeditions.

You know fishing expeditions - sometimes you make big catches and sometimes you don't and in sevens rugby you only have 14 minutes to do it.

But patience is the virtue of the hunter or fishermen. In sevens rugby the experts always say that if you stand up wide and let the ball do the work, the gaps will open on their own.

Matawalu is a game-breaker and matchwinner. Now in the modern era if opposing team coaches plan to close him down he may turn out to be the Achilles tendon in our Fiji side. But if he uses that special attention to set up his teammates then he will be unstoppable.

He has the speed and tackle and with more maturity will develop to be the country's top halfback both in sevens and fifteens.

Former All Black captain and halfback Dave Loveridge said that if All Black selectors are confronted to choose between two good halfbacks they will always go for a runner rather than a passer.

Matawalu is a runner and hopefully, like Vucago will in time mature to make the right decisions all the time.

In 2006 William Ryder was often brought into the game in the second half and was quite effective because of his elusiveness and individual style.

Matawalu could also be used likewise.

Raqamate and Ilai Tinai beef up Alifereti Dere's arsenal and they have the speed and guile to bamboozle the opposition.

However, they need to work hard on their defence.

With their size they could be vulnerable to straight running big forwards.

Ankle low tackles will often bring a bigger man down to earth and this was how Police and Fiji Babaas stopped some of Army giant Leone Nakarawa's attacking runs on Saturday.

With ball in hand Raqamate is likened to a razor as he can slice open gaps where there are none.

With Talebula cementing the playmaker's berth Raqamate and Matawalu will have to take turns at halfback.

Army's Nakarawa missed selection into the Fiji squad for Hong Kong and by far has been the most consistent forward in all past sevens tournament.

His size makes it hard for the opposition to tackle him. While like Matawalu he wants to attack at every opportunity the only difference is that he sets up his teammates who are in better position to score tries.

He would have been the best replacement for Sekonaia Kalou to make sure we win all our balls in the lineouts and kickoffs.

However, Waisea Nayacalevu had proven to be a ball winner in the two tournaments in Wellington and Las Vegas and maybe that is why Nakarawa was not selected.

Nemani Nagusa is proving to be the strongman of the national side and is a valuable player to be with when the chips are down.

He can run, he can tackle and can bulldoze his way through.

Many have likened him to the late 'Steelman' Aminiasi Naituyaga.

Naituyaga had on some occasions knocked over opposition tacklers like ten-pin bowlers not only by sheer brute force but by a unique technique of deceiving the opposition.

He would run straight at the defender, step to the left and step to the right before slamming the tackler. That way the defender is not prepared for the front on tackle and often caught flatfooted causing him to topple over.

Skipper Setefano Cakau and Jimilai Naikadawa showed that they have recovered from injuries suffered during the Gold Coast sevens.

Navy and Suva winger Sikeli Vuluma has a lot of speed to burn and with Macuata's Isimeli Taqea they will be the unknown forces for opposition teams in Hong Kong.

Vuluma will have to learn to hold the ball with both hands when trying to sidestep his way through heavy traffic in-field.

It's okay to hold the ball in one hand while running along the sideline to prepare for fending tacklers but whilst inside holding the ball with both hands will confuse the opposition on the intended direction of attack.

Joeli Lutumailagi rested because of a boil last Saturday but with the few games he played on Friday he showed that he has not lost his touch.

Lutumailagi is one of the most disciplined players in the side and he looks after himself well in what he eats and drinks.

It was relieving to note that a couple of top teams have effectively used 'the man outside' to score tries and break the opposition defence.

The Wardens scored most of their tries this way and it takes split timing and the officers were quite effective.

Watch Wales in the Six Nations and it is a technique often used by their fullback Halfpenny and it is a matchwinner. National Sevens coach Alifereti Dere has a couple more weeks on his hands to bring the players to tip top shape.

His is the toughest job of being Fiji rugby sevens coach.

When the team wins everyone gets the credit - but if it loses the coach gets the blame.

He is doing his job and he has asked for our support in prayers.

Let us all do our part and bring back Hong Kong sevens glory.

It's been a long time coming.

Third Place Playoffs

by Semi Leiwere

Fiji beat South Africa to urge ahead and retain their second position in the overall IRB standings.

Just a recap.

Same lineout for the heavily laden Fiji Team. Setefano Cakau and Sekonaia Kalou carrying injuries from the Wellington lag.

So reality speaking Fiji was playing effectively with 8 Players as Dan, Osea were ruled out from Day 1. Our brave solders stood against all odds to reach the playoff.

Emosi Vucago was sin binned so the Fiji Team played with 6 players another disadvantage for Fiji.

Samoa the winner for the Las Vegas lag HSBC IRB 7s. Samoa 26 New Zealand 19

After this Las Vegas competition. The standings now n needs to be confirm by IRB

IRB SERIES Table points NZ 92, Fiji 87, England 75 , South Africa 76, England 75, Samoa 69

2nd semifinal Samoa beaten Fiji 14 to 12

By Semi Leiwere

The setting was perfect, nice cool breeze at Sam Boyd's Stadium.

Fiji running on with only 10 Players where Dan n Osea were injured on Friday the beginning of the competition. Fatigue creeped in as well.

Whereas Samoa did not have Uale Mai as he was injured so he had a breather and he cam in the 2nd half and made a difference for Samoa. He held the team together and the Samoan boys morale were boosted with his inclusion.

Fatigue was obvious in both camp - but the competition was fierce n tense at the ground.

As any competition - a team will win and a team will loose. Luck was not the Fiji Team side this time as the bowed out of the Cup Competition and relegated to the Loosers Competition in the Plate Final versus South Africa.

Overall it was a good semifinal for Fiji in the first half and was not good enough for the second half.

So the next update would be for the game against South Africa for 3rd placings .

Well Fiji played a close game against in the qtrs vs Wales. They managed to get 12 vs wales 5.

A win is a win as they said. Considering the number of injuries in the team. We did well overall. Fiji has only 10 players in the side.

Rawaqa and Osea are ruled out of the game.

They will be focusing the semi finals against Samoa.10.48am tomorrow.

Let us wish Fiji all the best.

By Semi Leiwere

Fiji is playing at 18.58 for the last game of the day (Game 32).. so keep you posted.

What an early Blow to the Fiji Team

At the end of a dismal performance of the Fiji Team in the first pool game of the competition, they have to carry an injury to Taniela Rawaqa (No 10) with a hand injury he sustained.

Osea Kolinisau hopped out of the field at the end of the game with stomach pains and complications. He has been rushed to hospital for further examinations.

Coach Etuate Waqa has to deal with this early and we pray that this would not mar the morale of the team.

Let us pray for their speedy recovery.

By: Semi Leiwere from Sam Boyd Stadium

Dan Rawaqa is in Sunrise Hospital, here in Vegas 1st x-ray has confirmed that he has fractured arm. Doctors still want to do a final test/examination. It is likely that they want to have an operation on his arm. He is disappointed but still keeping his spirit high for his Team mates

Latest update by: Semi Leiwere.

SEVENS UPDATE- lIve from Sam Boyd Stadioum at Las Vegas.

Tietjens Starts 7s Selection

irb.Com
Monday, January 16, 2012

AHEAD of the fourth and fifth rounds of the 2011/12 HSBC Sevens World Series New Zealand Sevens Coach Gordon Tietjens has named 30 players to assemble in Mount Maunganui for the national squad trials starting on 17 January.

New Zealand are currently joint Series leaders with Fiji on 51 points after their Cup victory at the Nelson Mandela Bay South Africa Sevens in Port Elizabeth in December, and are now preparing for their home leg in Wellington on 3-4 February.

The players were named following the Pub Charity National Sevens in Queenstown which was won by Auckland who beat Otago 36-24 in the Final.

Tietjens, who is searching for a 10th title in 13 years, said the trial camp was an important part of identifying and developing future talents.

"The players know they are competing for contracts for the 2012 season but they also know we have an eye on talent for the Olympics in Rio de Janerio in 2016.

"This is a really exciting time to be involved with Sevens rugby.

"With fulltime Sevens contracts up for grabs in the future there are some talented young players coming into this trial that could put their hands up as Olympic medal hopefuls in Rio in four years' time," he said.

A national contracted squad of 15 will be named on 20 January at the conclusion of the trial and will assemble in Wellington on 26 January ahead of the Hertz Sevens tournament in the city on 3 and 4 February.

The hosts and defending Series and New Zealand Sevens champions will face pool matches against Samoa, Scotland and Japan on day one at the Westpac Stadium.

New Zealand: Toby Arnold, Tomasi Cama, Frazier Climo, Scott Curry, Matt Faddes, DJ Forbes, Frank Halai, Bryce Heem, Nathan Hughes, Joe Hill, Mark Jackman, Solomon King, Warwick Lahmert, James Lowe, Jono Malo, Tim Mikkelson, Kieran Moffat, Waisake Naholo, Kylem O'Donnell, Ken Pisi, Charles Piutau, Lote Raikabula. Glen Robertson, Ardie Savea, Ben Souness, Ahsee Tuala, Nafi Tuitavake, Lolagi Visinia, Joe Webber, Jack Wilson

Cakau leads Babaas

Rashneel Kumar
Saturday, January 14, 2012

VETERAN Setefano Cakau will lead the Digicel Fiji Barbarians team into the Uprising Fiji International Sevens tournament next weekend.

National coach Alifereti Dere named a strong side at Digicel's Kadavu House office in Suva yesterday. The side has two new faces.

The 2005 Rugby World Cup (RWC) 7s non-travelling reserve Iliesa Nadau and Lautoka's Jone Tiko have the chance to impress the national selectors and make the team for the second leg of the HSBC IRB Sevens World Series.

Alongside them, 15s reps Sekonaia Kalou, Apisai Domolailai, Nemani Nagusa, Samu Bola and Jo Nasilisili have been roped in for the top level abbreviated code competition to be held at tfl National Stadium in Suva on January 20-21.

Notable exclusions from the team are former national 7s skipper Emosi Vucago and James Brown, who were part of the national squad in the opening leg of the series.

Jimilai Naikadawa, who was injured at the Gold Coast 7s last year, was also left out but other injured players Cakau and Livai Ikanikoda made it into the team.

Dere said the Fiji Barbarians squad was selected based on the performance of the players during training and the fitness test, which was conducted yesterday morning.

"We have been closely monitoring the players' performance at our training and the fitness result was also considered before we named the 12-member squad to the Uprising 7s tournament," he said.

"We have named Cakau and Ikanikoda because the physio has informed us they have fully recovered from the injuries they sustained in the last leg.

"We observed Jimilai still needs some time to rest before he is fully recovered to play the top level competition and Emosi has started developing a boil so we rested him as well."

Dere said the final squad for the Wellington and Las Vegas 7s would be named after the Uprising 7s.

"We will select a 16-member squad which will be trimmed down to 12 who will travel to Wellington and Las Vegas."

Meanwhile, Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer Manasa Baravilala said the Uprising 7s would help the team test its combination.

"The standard of competition in our own local tournaments is always first class, so what better place to test our top national players than at the Uprising 7s tournament."

Fiji Barbarians

Forwards: Sekonaia Kalou, Apisai Domolailai, Nemani Nagusa, Samu Bola, Setefano Cakau, Dale Tonawai;

Backs: Iliesa Nadau, Osea Kolinisau, Metuisela Talebula, Livai Ikanikoda, Jone Tiko, Jo Nasilisili

7s talents on show

Kameli Rakoko
Thursday, January 12, 2012

TWENTY players from the sevens training squad have been named to prepare for the Wellington and Las Vegas legs of the HSBC IRB series and they are the fittest we've got.

Last week we promised to talk about some talents that are around but not in the current Fiji team that will provide options for our national sevens coaches and selectors.

One such talent is Police's Waisale Dau, who failed to make the last 20, but has played sevens for Fiji on a couple of occasions.

But such is the Naitasiri lad that when he is fit he is an instant match winner especially for Police on many occasions.

His problem is just that he is inconsistent, probably because of injury, but on his day few other playmakers currently playing can match him.

Not that he plays badly, rather he does have quiet games where he opts to let his teammates outshine him rather than him weaving his magic.

What makes Dau unique is that he goosesteps with either feet and this has often seen him get out of tight situations either to score tries or set up teammates.

And when he does a double ù a left then right goosestep one after the other fans go crazy and take double intakes of breath. He tackles well and is a solid customer.

He is the next closest thing to Waisale Serevi and he still needs to develop confidence and consistency.

But just like in Serevi's days people watch sevens rugby just because he is playing and some fans like to watch the Police team just because Dau will be playing, expecting him to come up with his tricks.

However, Dere and Etuate Waqa have gone for the consistent and super-fit Metuisela Talebula and Livai Ikanikoda for the choices of playmaker.

At playmaker or rover is Talebula, a multi-talented player with rugby in his blood.

His three uncles, the Ratudradra brothers, all played rugby for Fiji.

Eldest uncle Viliame Ratudradra played at number eight for Fiji in the famous win against the British Lions in Suva in 1977 and represented Fiji on many occasions including the Fiji sevens team in the inaugural Hong Kong Sevens in 1976 and the first win in 1977.

Younger brothers Eneri and Kitione Ratudradra also played loose forwards for Fiji in fifteens.

Talebula played for the Fiji sevens team in New Caledonia last year and displayed the aggressiveness in the tackle that was a trademark of the Ratudradra brothers.

He will be a popular choice for Wellington and Las Vegas because of his front on and fearless tackling and exceptional rugby talents.

In the current squad, expect big things from Nadroga's Sekonaia Kalou.

The man from Navisabasaba in the tikina of Malomalo maybe just the answer Fiji has been waiting for.

He is a fitness fanatic, a test second-rower and can outrun any winger in the country.

Kalou previously played his rugby in New Zealand for Otago and represented Nadroga last season.

He plays sports throughout the year and is a national men's netball and Fiji archery rep.

He played for Fiji in the 2011 Rugby World Cup but was injured.

But if we follow Kalou's XV career he is a prolific tryscorer having played in every Fiji game in 2010.

He likes to show off his great pace whenever he is in possession and his run-away try against Samoa last year is the most memorable.

With the fullback to beat Kalou swerved around him and outpaced him for the race to the tryline.

He is a great lineout jumper and rarely does a player play first for Fiji in fifteens then sevens. His great speed and all-round play in tight and loose situations makes him a trump card for the next leg of the series.

The other Nadroga forward experienced players are Apisai Domolailai and Nemani Nagusa.

They have ball winning capabilities, provincial and top level experience to go with it.

Obviously, Dere and Waqa have maintained their preference of players who have had provincial rugby experience.

Sevens is a pressure game and Fiji has often lost many important games because players recruited from club level competitions often lacked mental toughness, which is gained through experience in top provincial competitions.

They can play well in pool games against weaker opposition and when it comes to the tougher games against England, New Zealand, South Africa and Samoa they easily panic. But it is not always the case and some players selected from club competitions in previous years like William Ryder have won great games for Fiji against top opposition and made a name for themselves.

So by the look of things to come, players hoping to make the national sevens team will have had to play top level rugby to be sure to make Dere and Waqa's team.

On the other hand club sevens tournaments allows the exposure of a wide range of sevens talents which wouldn't have been possible through provincial sevens competitions.

It is up to the club coaches and provincial coaches to seek out and nurture such talents as in the case of Semi Radradra, who was noticed by Inoke Male in Taveuni and brought over to be groomed at Vatukoula.

He rose from the unknown to the Fiji under-20 side, Fiji sevens team and now he has been recruited by Parramatta Eels in the National Rugby League competition in Australia.

And he is only 19 years of age.

In the speed department Joe Nasilisili carries our hopes with Osea Kolinisau.

Suva speedster Isikeli Vuruna did not make the final 20 maybe because of his military connections and would be an interesting prospect for the rest of the series.

As for Joeli Lutumailagi and Mitieli Nacagilevu their decision to rest has been hailed by many rugby followers as a wise decision.They may lose monetary benefits and opportunities to tour overseas in the next couple of months but they will benefit in the long run.

As the fitness experts say, load + rest = fitness.

We expect bigger things from them in both codes for Fiji.

Clubs to pay for 7s stars

Maciu Malo And Rashneel Kumar
Monday, January 09, 2012

OVERSEAS clubs wanting to take contracted Fiji sevens players must pay a fee.

Fiji Rugby Union operation manager Vilikesa Rinavuaka said the deal with union clubs abroad was that the release for any player contracted by the FRU must be paid according to his contract.

The comment comes as sevens players are being eyed by overseas clubs - including big-paying rugby league teams in the National Rugby League competition in Australia.

Semi Radradra, the young speedster from Somosomo in Taveuni, joined the Paramatta Eels after a sterling performance in the first leg of the IRB HSBC World Sevens Series on the Gold Coast.

The 20-year-old has been the find of the squad and his loss has left a void for coaches Alivereti Dere and his assistant, strategist Etuate Waqa, to fill by the end of the Uprising Sevens on January 21.

Rinavuaka said all unions had an understanding on player transfers.

"I'm not sure about rugby league clubs but unions have this deal," he said.

Newcastle Knights assistant coach Rick Stone, who flies into the country next month to coach the Fiji Bati, said they were still negotiating with the FRU.

"Negotiations are ongoing but nothing definite has eventuated," he said. "The recruitment team is definitely working on getting his release and I'm not sure what negotiations are ongoing at the moment."

National Digicel 7s coach Waqa, who switched to rugby league with former sevens star Noa Nadruku in the early 90s after playing rugby union in Australia and at home, said players must carefully consider their overseas offers before signing them.

The former dual international said the Rugby House wanted the best for the players, for their future and their families.

He said they had no hard feelings for Votu and Radradra "but we wanted them to secure good rugby contracts, especially for Votu".

"Most Fijian boys are excited of going overseas and they don't bother to check the finer details of their contracts," said Waqa.

"We want the best deal for them - not all overseas clubs are good, we have had many Fijian boys coming back to Fiji because of such dealings and we do not want these to happen to our boys."

He said the Australian rugby league teams were already starting with their off-season training and "this means that their final squad has been finalised".

"For Semi, I believe he will go through the trials for the Under 20 team, likewise for Votu he will undergo three months of trials before he's selected in the development squad.

"Being selected in the premier team is not an automatic, you need to go through many trial games and I know the same will happen to these two.

"I wish them the very best and continue to do well in their various new clubs," he added

Decree to license and brand Fiji mahogany

Friday, December 23, 2011

Cabinet has approved a Mahogany Decree which will govern the licensing and branding of Fijian mahogany.

Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says the decree will ensure the mahogany industry operates on a sustainable basis and provides maximum return.

Sayed-Khaiyum says the Mahogany Industry Council will have rights to grant licenses.

“In June 2011, the council issued its first license to Sustainable Mahogany Industries Limited (SMI), at an upfront license fee of $1 million. In addition to this upfront license fee, SMI is also required to pay a license fee of $70 per cubic metre for every cubic metre of mahogany logs purchased from FHCL, as well as $25 per cubic metre reforestation fee.”

Sayed-Khaiyum says the decree will also enforce Fijian mahogany as an exclusive brand so that it is not mixed with mahogany from other countries.

A harvesting code of practice will also apply to the harvesting of plantation grown mahogany trees.

Report by : Christopher Chand

Sevens team turns to supplements

Emoni Narawa
Thursday, December 22, 2011

THE Digicel Fiji sevens team has been advised to use the Sports Nutrition Supplements supplied by Fiji Sports Supplements.

Lautoka rugby coach Sireli Bulicokocoko mentioned that the nutritious supplement would help uplift the performance of rugby players in the country.

Bulicokocoko's men used the legal drug during its off-season training.

"I believe if Fiji rugby wants to improve then I am recommending this thing to be used by all players. I have seen the changes it has given my players and their performance during training."

FSS director Apenisa Vodo said the national sevens team needed the supplement to ensure appropriate and speedy recovery during the International Rugby Boards HSBC Sevens World Series.

"Rugby is an intensive contact sport that involves tedious and rigorous workouts. One of our biggest hurdles in the IRB 7s circuit is recovery time."

"Our players are constantly travelling for long flying hours, having to train rigorously and then having to play consecutive two to three day tournaments, by the time our players are on the field for the actual tournament they are fatigued and worn out as a result of the strained and worn muscles, lost nutrients and dehydration," the former Italy international said.

He said the nutrition supplement ensures appropriate and speedy recovery, rehydration, rebuilding and strengthening of muscles and the carrying of the right amount of body fat. He said having the wrong muscle or fat ratio leaves athletes prone to injuries.

"The last three 7's tournaments in Gold Coast, Dubai and Port Elizabeth have revealed that our players were dehydrated, fatigued, prone to injuries and powerless as highlighted in their weak defence and lack of endurance," Vodo said.

He added Fiji could still use the supplement to boost its performance in the next leg.

"We have another six tournaments left in this circuit with the upcoming Wellington tournament. It is not too late for our team to turn the odds around in our favour, this is the timely opportunity for our players to use sports nutrition supplements to recover, rehydrate, rebuild/repair muscles and build endurance and muscle power whilst ensuring that essential appropriate muscle/fat ratio in their bodies."

He said Fiji was blessed with natural talent. "Other teams beat us in strength, speed and power because they use this supplement despite our natural talents," Vodo said. Fiji coach Alifereti Dere said they needed to seek advice on the legal drug.

"We got our physio and other people in the team to seek advice from. It is a good idea but we need to seek advice from experts before we can make a decision," Dere said

FBCL News

7s workshop highlights key areas

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Players in the Digicel Fiji team today delivered their report of what they thought could be improved on before the Wellington and Las Vegas 7s next year.

Coach Alivereti Dere says the players highlighted two areas following the Gold Coast, Dubai and South Africa 7s tournaments.

"They highlighted the administration side of things like the food and clothing. The main point on clothing was that we are at a professional rugby era where teams get to wear brand clothes from sponsors and that we have to get with the time."

Dere also highlighted areas the coaching staff identified, needing more improvement.

"From our part, we will try and improve on our endurance and our set pieces. These were the two key areas we felt that were exposed by other teams."

The players have been handed their training program for the next two weeks and will be having their fitness test on January 4.

Report by : Vosita Kotoiwasawasa

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ITUC-CSI-IGB

NEWS

ILO Condemns Fiji Junta over Labour Rights

18 November 2011: The UN’s International Labour Organisation has issued a strong condemnation of Fiji’s military Junta over severe violations of labour rights. The ILO’s Committee on Freedom of Association described the situation there as “extremely serious” and requiring urgent attention.

The ruling follows the arrests of Daniel Urai, President of the national trade union centre FTUC on October 29 and Felix Anthony, the organisation’s General Secretary, on 5 November. Worker representatives have also been subjected to a campaign of harassment, intimidation and physical beatings.

“Fiji’s military rulers are turning the country into an absolute dictatorship, and seem determined to destroy the trade unions as part of their strategy to crush any dissent and eliminate the legitimate voice of civil society,” said ITUC General Secretary Sharan Burrow. “The rulers must turn back from this destructive path, and allow Fiji to return to democracy.”

The arrests of Urai and Anthony and the travel bans placed on them, have been linked to union opposition to a recent “essential services decree” which eliminates the right to trade union representation for a large part of Fiji’s workforce. The decree, written for the military regime by a US law firm, takes away collective bargaining rights for many workers, imposes heavy restrictions on those elected to union leadership positions and removes the right to strike and minimum wages for all the sectors it covers.

“The ITUC and its international trade union partners will be ramping up action against the Fijijunta’s plan to destroy workers’ rights, and is calling on all governments to put maximum pressure on the military rulers,” said Burrow.

The Australian Council of Trade Unions and national employer group ACCI have jointly condemned the junta’s actions, and trade union representatives at this week’s ILO Governing Body meeting have issued their own strong condemnation through the ILO’s Workers’ Group

__

This site is dedicated to give accurate News from the Fiji Islands.

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FIJI 7S SUPPORTERS – WHY DON’T WE PUT OUR MONEY WHERE OUR MOUTH IS! 3 Replies

So many times when Fiji rugby supporters would turn around and curse the rugby players when the team loses a competition. On the other hand, we smart to praise them when they win a tournament. In most cases asked the Government of the Day for a…Continue

Started by SEMI LEIWERE. Last reply by Siteri Maravou Dec 11, 2011.

THE FIJI TIMES

State plan for miners

Students clean up home to support friends

Ending the stigma

Synergy appeals for funds

First card for PM

HIV/AIDS and the role of the church

No Vunivalu yet

Honour privacy clause

Monitor takes tough stand on burning bus

Give the VC

Call for water body

Locals throng to hear folk songs

Drunks top accident list

Computers for school

Culture is important, says singer

Province sets agenda

Colonel visits project sites

Access concerns

Food for ashram residents

Show to promote exposure

More…

REPUBLIC OF FIJI IN STATE OF EMERGENCY

FIJI DUMPS SAMOA WINS LONDON SEVENS 2012
Copyright 2012 © Fijilive.com

MIGHTY ALL BLACKS WIN GLASGOW SEVENS!

Town won't move

Felix Chaudhary (The:Fiji Times)
Tuesday, April 10, 2012

RELOCATING flood-prone Nadi Town is not an option.

Businesses leaders from the tourist centre who met with government officials

yesterday said moving establishments would be a costly affair and called on

the investigation of other options such river diversion and straightening.

"The cost and logistics of moving Nadi Town makes it an impossible task and

this is something that we are not even going to discuss at this stage or in the

near future," said Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Dr Ram

Raju.

"We simply have got to find solutions to minimise flooding."

Dr Ram said that while many businesses had affirmed they would continue to

operate despite substantial losses from flood damage, a few were looking at the

possibility of relocating to higher ground and safer areas.

"I would like to commend those that choose to continue operating here despite

what they have gone through and put to rest a lot speculation in the media about

the town centre relocating ù that is simply not going to happen."

"There are several reasons for this ù apart from the obvious one of cost, many

businesses have invested heavily for decades in infrastructure and then there is

the sentimental value of businesses in Nadi where operations have been passed down from generation to generation.

"It is no easy task to just uproot everything and move," he said.

PRIME MINISTER BAINAMARAMA TOURING FLOOD DAMAGED AREAS

PLEASE FIJI BIZZ FRIENDS REPOST THIS TO AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE, THER ARE STILL PEOPLE IN NEED:

Please contact the following numbers if you need any form of assistance:

Commissioner Western - 6660158/6260730
Divisional Officer Nadi - 6700101
Provincial Administrator Nadroga/Navosa - 6500014 (m) 9305737
DO/Ba - 6674056
Assistant Divisional Officer Ba - 8776708
Provincial Administrator Ra - 6694240
DO/Tavua – 6680553 / 6680610
DO/Nadarivatu – 6510756 / 6680553

FIJI UNDER WATER! STATE OF EMERGENCY

A home in Nadi

NADI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RUNWAY UNDER WATER

A HOME ALMOST TOTALLY SUBMERGED IN WATER

Latest Weather Bulletin from our friends at the Fiji Met Service.

Special Weather Bulletin Number THREE FOR FIJI ON TROPICAL DEPRESSION 19F ISSUED FROM RSMC NADI at 1:07am on Monday the 2nd of April 2012 TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING

A GALE WARNING IS NOW IN FORCE VITI-LEVU, YASAWA AND MAMANUCA GROUP, KADAVU AND NEARBY SMALLER ISLANDS INCLUDING SOUTHERN LAU GROUP.

A STRONG WIND WARNING REMAINS IN FORCE FOR THE REST OF FIJI GROUP.

SEVERE FLOOD WARNING REMAINS IN FORCE FOR ALL MAJOR RIVERS, STREAMS AND LOW LYING AREAS OF VITI LEVU.

TROPICAL DEPRESSION TD19F CENTRE [997HPA] WAS LOCATED NEAR 16 DECIMAL 5 SOUTH 167 DECIMAL 2 EAST OR ABOUT 1100 KILOMETRES WEST OF NADI AT 12AM TODAY. CLOSE TO THE CENTRE THE DEPRESSION IS EXPECTED TO HAVE AVERAGE WIND SPEEDS OF 46 KM/HR. THE DEPRESSION IS MOVING SOUTHEAST AT ABOUT 20 KM/HR. IT IS EXPECTED TO INTENSIFY FURTHER AND POSSIBLY BECOME A TROPICAL CYCLONE IN THE NEXT 12 TO 24 HOURS.

ON THIS TRACK, IT MAY BRING DAMAGING GALE FORCE WINDS ESPECIALLY OVER VITI LEVU, YASAWA AND MAMANUCA GROUP, KADAVU AND NEARBY SMALLER
ISLANDS INCLUDING SOUTHERN LAU GROUP IN THE NEXT 12 TO 24 HOURS.

FOR VITI LEVU, YASAWA AND MAMANUCA GROUP, KADAVU AND NEARBY SMALLER ISLANDS INCLUDING SOUTHERN LAU GROUP: STRONG NORTHWESTERLY WINDS WITH AVERAGE SPEEDS OF 40 TO 55 KM/HR WITH MOMENTARY GUSTS TO 85KM/HR POSSIBLY INCREASING TO DAMAGING GALE FORCE
WINDS WITH AVERAGE SPEEDS OF 65 KM/HR AND MOMENTARY GUSTS TO 110 KM/HR IN THE NEXT 12 TO 24 HOURS.

PERIODS OF HEAVY RAIN AND SQUALLY THUNDERSTORMS. SEVERE FLOODING OF MAJOR RIVERS, STREAMS AND LOW LYING AREAS INCLUDING SEA FLOODING OF LOW-LYING COASTAL AREAS.

FOR THE REST OF FIJI:
EXPECT STRONG NORTHWEST WINDS WITH AVERAGE SPEEDS 40 KM/HR TO 55KM/HR AND MOMENTARY GUSTS TO 85 KM/HR. PERIODS OF RAIN, HEAVY AT TIMES AND
SQUALLY THUNDERSTORMS. FLOODING OF LOW-LYING AREAS.

The following information is provided especially for the mariners:
FOR YASAWA AND MAMANUCA SOUTHWEST VITI LEVU AND SOUTHERN LAU WATERS KADAVU PASSAGE : NORTHWEST WINDS 30 KNOTS GUSTING TO 55 KNOTS INCREASING TO 40 KNOTS WITH GUSTS TO 65 KNOTS IN THE NEXT 12 TO 24 HOURS. VERY ROUGH TO HIGH SEAS. DAMAGING HEAVY SWELLS. FOR THE REST OF WATERS: NORTH TO NORTHWEST WINDS 20 TO 30 KNOTS GUSTING TO 45 KNOTS. ROUGH TO VERY ROUGH SEAS. MODERATE SWELLS.
POOR VISIBILITY IN AREAS OF HEAVY RAIN AND SQUALLY THUNDERSTORMS.

THE NEXT SPECIAL WEATHER BULLETIN FOR FIJI WILL BE ISSUED AT AROUND 4AM TODAY.

_________________________________________________________________

Met Service issues tropical cyclone alert

Members of the public are advised that earlier this afternoon, a tropical depression was located about 1,200 kilometres West North West of Nadi.

The depression is moving South East at about 25 kilometres per hour.

It is expected to intensify further and possibly become a tropical cyclone in the next 24 hours.
DISMAC advises people to listen to the weather updates on the radio, ensure the safety of family members, prepare a disaster kit with emergency supplies, fill water containers and fuel your vehicles, batten down houses, put up shutters and secure doors and windows.

2 dead, 3 missing, 8000 evacuated

iji's floods have forced almost 8000 people into 99 evacuation centres as the country grapples with more heavy rain, more flooding and a potential cyclone threat. Authorities have declared a state of emergency in the flood-hit Western Division, but have stopped short of declaring a state of natural disaster. Two people are dead and three people are confirmed missing. DISMAC director Pajiliai Dobui told FijiLive they are still trying to get details of the missing people. Dobui said the body of a 20-year-old Fijian male was retrieved on Friday from Raviravi Creek in Ba, and an unidentified man’s body is being kept at Lautoka mortuary. Fiji Police had confirmed yesterday the unidentified man’s body was retrieved from his vehicle after it was swept away by strong currents in Nadi Earlier, a 57-year old Lautoka woman had died at the Lomolomo evacuation centre due to diabetes complications. Eleven people had died when similar floods hit the Western Division in January. Dobui said there are now 96 evacuation centres in the Western Division with 7786 evacuees due to fresh flooding. For the Central and Eastern divisions, he said the number remains the same as this morning - 51 people and three familes in three evacuation centres. A fresh concern is the rising water levels in the Rewa River in the Central Division. Nausori town on the banks of the river is the country's fourth largest with a population of 47,604. The state of emergency was announced by Permanent Secretary for Provincial Development and Natural Disaster Management, Lieutenant Colonel Inia Seruiratu this morning. “A state of emergency has been declared for areas in the Western Division and authorities have not ruled out that a state of natural disaster will be declared.” Lt Colonel Seruiratu said they are doing all they can to help those that need it the most. “The fact of the matter is strong weather conditions continue.” Seruiratu said this flood was worse than in January or the flooding in 2009. "About twice as much water has come in half as much time," he said. Authorities have been hampered in responding for help due to damaged roads and bridges. The declared state of emergency zone includes areas from Rakiraki till Tavua and Ba districts namely Wailotua, Koronubu and Ravuravu and Nasolo village, Toge and Balevuto. In Lautoka, the area is from Bareta flats to Natabua and Drasa flats till Nadi district and includes Korociriciri, Moala village, Korovuto, Nawaqa and Namaka, Sikituru right up to Votualevu and nearby areas. In Nadroga district, the areas are from Sigatoka town and Malawai and Navosa and Nasikawa and Nawakubu. Nadi is still cut off on the temple end of town as the Navo Bridge and its approach has been washed away, while at Yadua, Sigatoka, the Queens Highway is cut off, but temporary repairs mean emergency cases are now being allowed through, but get stuck at Navo Bridge. Some West roads have been opened, but the majority remain closed. This is affecting people travelling in and out of the country. Tourists are also stranded in hotels on the Coral Coast. Air Pacific announced three international flights for this morning to Auckland, Sydney and Brisbane, but cancelled three scheduled afternoon flights to Auckland, Melbourne and Honolulu. An empty Air New Zealand B747 today returned to its destination after strong winds and heavy rains forced the pilot to abandon landing at Nadi International Airport. The plane was scheduled to fly out stranded passengers and Air New Zealand said they would try again tomorrow (Monday). All inbound flights are flying in empty on the request of the government until further notice. All schools in the West remain closed until further notice. The Fiji Electricity Authority annnounced today that it will ration power in the Central Division from tomorrow after a transmission tower fell and disrupted supply from the Wailoa Hydro Power Station. Despite the bad weather Christians in the country celebrated Palm Sunday while Hindus celebrated Ram Navami or the the birth of Lord Ram, and prayed for blessings and better weather. By Farzana Nisha/Ropate Valemei/Keresi Nauwakarawa

Read more at: http://fijilive.com/news/2012/04/2-dead-3-missing-8000-evacuated/41318.Fijilive
Copyright 2012 © Fijilive.com

________________________________________________________________

LATEST PICTURES FROM BA

BA TOWN LOOKING TOWARDS BA MARKET

7786 evacuees at 96 centres in West

Young Aussies win Tokyo 7s title

April 01, 2012

By Reginald Chandar

A young and determined Australian outfit won the Tokyo leg of the 2011/2012 HSBC World Sevens Series tonight after defeating Samoa 28-26 in a nail biting final.

The Michael O' Connor coached side after walloping England 33-12 in the semifinal looked composed in the grand finale and did not panic, even when they trailed in the match to Samoa.

Hard hitting forward Alafoti Faasiliva scored the first try of the final as Samoa took a 5-0 lead.

But Australia replied minutes with two tries to speedster Shannon Walker.

Playmaker Alatasi Tupou narrowed the scores as Australia led 14-12 at halftime.

Damon Anderson raced away for the Aussies after the restart to give them a 21-12 lead but the celebration was cut short as Faasiliva dotted down for his second try.

Sprinter Ken Pisi extended Samoa's lead with another try as the Pacific Islands led 26-21 in the last two minutes.

Captain Ed Jenkins leveled the scores with his try in the right corner and it was all left to Ben Lucas to decide the winner with his conversion and the nippy halfback did not disappoint as he scored the two crucial points in Australia's famous victory.

Meanwhile, New Zealand won the 3rd and 4th place match beating England 24-17 while Fiji beat South Africa 14-10 to win the Plate.

France won the Bowl defeating USA 17-12 while Scotland won the Shield after beating Kenya 26-12 in the final.

FijiLive

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KING GEORGE TUPOU V LAID TO REST IN AN ELABORATE FUNERAL SERVICE

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FLP holds national council meeting

Repeka Nasiko
Monday, March 26, 2012

After a lapse of more than three years, the Fiji Labour Party held its first ever national council meeting on Saturday and it was evident the end of their long wait had been a relief for the members.

FLP leader Mahendra Chaudhry said it was very good to meet again with his fellow party members.

"We meet again after a little over three years. The last meeting was in February 2009 in Nadi," Mr Chaudhry said after their closed meeting at the Ba Hotel.

"It's good to be able to meet and be able to discuss issues that are of great importance to the country."

About 50 delegates of FLP's national council members were present at the meeting. Those present at the meeting included former Minister for Women, Culture and Social Welfare Lavenia Padarath, former Senator Sachida Sharma, lawyer Rajendra Chaudhry and Fiji Trade Union Congress president Daniel Urai.

He said in their next meeting in July, they hoped to elect new members into office.

"We also haven't been able to hold our annual delegates conference for the last three years so office bearers who were elected in 2008 continued in office, and of course we will have a delegate's conference in July where we will have elections for all the position," he said

_______________________________________________________________

His Majesty King George Tupou V's Royal Cortege has arrived in his Kingdom, where he will lie in state tonight for traditional vigil ceremonies and final rites, at the Royal Palace in Nuku'alofa. King George will be buried beside his ancestors at the Royal Tombs in Mala'ekula tomorrow, where an era marked by the Kingdom's complexities but with fullness of detail will close.

(Bula Bee)

_________________________________________________

SETAFANO CAKAU-TEAM DEDICATES HONG KONG 7's WIN TO NACAGILEVU!

‘Miti this is for you.’

‘Miti this is for you.’

That's the word of national 7s captain Setefano Cakau after Fiji defeated New Zealand 35-28 in the Hong Kong 7s final last night.

The inspirational skipper dedicated the win to Mitieli Nacagilevu who is bed ridden after sustaining an injury during the Marist 7s earlier this month

LUTUMAILAGI OPENS WITH A SPECTACULAR TRY!

Ratu Epeli off to Tonga

Timoci Vula
Sunday, March 25, 2012

PRESIDENT Ratu Epeli Nailatikau departed for Tonga yesterday to attend the funeral of the late King George Tupou V.

An Information Ministry statement confirmed yesterday that Ratu Epeli and First Lady Adi Koila would represent Fiji and join regional leaders for the state funeral.

King George, 63, died in Hong Kong on March 18.

Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama had earlier said the death of King George would be a loss not only for Tonga, but the whole Pacific Island states.

Commodore Bainimarama assured Tonga's Prime Minister Lord Siale'ataonga Tu'ivakano that Fiji would continue to strive to maintain its traditional links and bilateral co-operation with the island kingdom, especially in common priority areas.

Meanwhile, an ecumenical memorial service will be held this evening at the Apitonga Church in Flagstaff, Suva.

Let's discuss it all, says CCF

Serelisoni Moceica
Saturday, March 17, 2012

ALL issues should be open for discussion during the constitutional development, says the Citizens' Constitutional Forum Ltd after government de-established the Great Council of Chiefs.

The CCF said in a statement government's decision on the GCC challenged its earlier assurances of open debates and discussions with the people of Fiji during the constitution consultations.

"The Citizens' Constitutional Forum believes that all issues, however contentious, should be open to discussion during the constitution development process as this sort of decision making may make the public feel disaffected and excluded from participating in the constitution formation, before the process even starts," said CEO Reverend Akuila Yabaki.

He said a review team in 2004 had recommended a GCC that was independent of government and also suggested the council was subject to political manipulation in its form.

"The GCC brought discredit on itself after high chiefs were involved with the Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua politics.

"The role of the GCC was previously enshrined in the Constitution, and is therefore a matter which needs to be put on the table for open discussions before a final decision is made.

"This is the expected purpose of the constitution consultation process," Reverend Yabaki said.

The forum also argued that the structure and role of the President was a constitutional concern and should be discussed during the constitutional process.

Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama announced the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, had signed the decrees to abolish the GCC earlier this week.

Bainimarama abolishes GCC

Fiji's paramount chiefly body, The Great Council of Chiefs has been scrapped off by Fiji's Illegal Leader Voreqe Bainimarama.

______________________________

FIJI FANS AT LAS VEGAS SEVENS

MANU DOWNS KIWI WINS HSBC LAS VEGAS SEVENS 2012

Uale Mai stopped the New Zealanders from repeating last weeks performance when he helped his side win the USA leg of the IRB Sevens by 26 points to 19.

Tomasi Cama's efforts to contain the mighty Samoas failed as our Pacific Island neigbhours maintained its defense against the opposition.

Despite todays win Samoa is number 5 in the IRB standings while New Zealand maintaing its lead.

The next leg of the IRB Sevens will be in Hong Kong Sevens on the 24th of March.

Samoa has secured its spot in the Cup Finals after defeating Fiji by 14 points to 12. Fiji dominated the first half of the game with a 12 point lead.

However in the second Fiji did not maintain their game plan and with Uale Mai's inclusion in the second half the much more focused Samoan Team ended the game with14 points to 12.

Samoa play New Zealand in the Cup Finals at 2.30pm US Time.

Fiji plays South Africa in the playoff at 2.06US Time.

_______________________

The Fiji Team needs to improve on its defense and team work if it wants to secure a spot in the tournament proper.

Although our boys won its final pool match against Canada this afternoon they still have more room for improvement.

Now winner of Pool B, Fiji will face Wales in the quarterfinals later today.

Fiji up its performance

by Siteri Maravou

The Emosi Vucago lead Fiji Team improved their performance in their second pool match and managed to add one more onto its bag with a win against USA.

Leading at halftime with 19 points to 7, Fiji opened the second half with a try. Our boys team effort saw a better co-ordination when they ended their second pool match by 33 points to 17.

The win secures Fiji's berth into the tournament proper and the hosts exit after losing its second game on day one.

The US leg of the IRB Sevens has seen Fiji in an easy pool. Its last pool match will be against Canada tomorrow.

Fiji team could do better

by: Siteri Maravou

The Fiji Team was lucky to get through its first pool matches when they defeated Argentina by a narrow margin of 14 points to 12.

Todays performance could be easily compared to its match against Tonga in Wellington last week.

Veteran Fiji Rugby Commentator Graham Eden said the Team lacked understanding amongst themselves and thus created a lot of confusion. Graham went on to say the poor selection of the team also attributed to a not so good result of the game.

With Taniela Rawaqa ruled out of the rest of the matches due to a hand injury and Osea Kolinisau's stomach complication, Coach Waqa will not have much option to select from as Fiji plays United States in their second pool match today.