Kolinisau to lead Fiji 7s team third year in-a–row

Osea Kolinisau will lead the Fijian 7s team for the third year in-a-row at the 2016 Wellington 7s this weekend.

And the Namuka-i-Lau native aims to make amends at the Cake Tin after he and Semi Kunatani let the team down last year.

This was after they were cited for dangerous tackles in their final pool match against Australia which resulted in the duo missing out in the quarterfinal against England. Fiji lost 26-21 but bounced back to win the Plate title defeating Australia 24-0.

Kolinisau admitted yesterday this was the downfall of the team last year.

“Last year we got cited which I still think was unfair but I thank the Lord that I’m in the team again this year,”Kolinisau said.

“This was one of the obstacles I faced last year which I want to rectify this year. I want to play better then I played in Wellington last year.

“I treat everything as a challenge.

“I will try to lead from the front in every tournament.”

With the inclusion of Sonny Bill Williams in the New Zealand 7s squad, Kolinisau said it should be an exciting tournament this weekend.

“It’s really exciting for the games of 7s to have those big names coming in for their country. But for us we have to focus on ourselves. Coach

Ben Ryan always stressed that if we have the right mindset, we got no problem.”

He is grateful to lead a team of experienced and skillful players.

“I’ve been leading the side since 2013 and it’s a privilege and an honour for me and my family to be captain of the No1 team in the world.

“Pio Tuwai, Semi Kunatani, Amenoni Nasilasila and Isake Katonibau can lead the team. But I’m honoured to lead a group of very talented players.”

Kolinisau’s Covenant Brothers Rugby Club wished the team well in Wellington and Sydney.

Team captain Etuate Qio said Kolinisau set good examples.

“We always support Osea,” he said.

Meanwhile, Fijian 7s head coach Ben Ryan commended the efforts displayed by the extended squad during training as they prepare for the Wellington 7s this weekend.

Ryan said the selection door was always open.

     

Author: 
PACNEWS