[Pic:Fiji Rugby/Facebook]
FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Senirusi Seruvakula says regular international matches will be crucial for Fiji as it prepares for the upcoming Nations Championship.
With Fiji and Japan set to meet in the Pacific Nations Cup final, Seruvakula believes consistent game time will be important in building combinations and maintaining match fitness ahead of the next international campaign.
While the Pacific Nations Cup provides valuable competition, Seruvakula says Fiji needs more regular Tests to ensure the side is ready for the challenges ahead.
Japan has already benefited from a busy international schedule, including Tests against Australia and Canada, giving the team valuable exposure against quality opposition.
Seruvakula says Fiji also needs to build that momentum, with another Test against Japan scheduled for October.
The Flying Fijians will return to Japan for a one-off Test celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Japan Rugby Football Union.
“It’s very important for us to be having regular matches going to the Nations Cup.”
The October Test will provide another opportunity for Fiji to fine-tune its preparations before heading to Europe, where it will open its Nations Championship campaign against France.
Seruvakula says every additional Test will be important as Fiji looks to build consistency and prepare for the demanding international schedule.
“The more games we play, the more important and the advantage for us going into the Nations Cup.”
Fiji will face Japan in the Pacific Nations Cup final tonight at 10:05pm, with the October encounter offering another important opportunity to test itself against the Japanese side before the European campaign.
