Fiji Airways men’s 7s coach Gareth Baber believes the experienced players have played a major role in mentoring the newcomers like Vilimoni Botitu, Meli Derenalagi and Aminiasi Tuimaba.

Baber says players like skipper Kalione Nasoko, Jerry Tuwai, Sevuloni Mocenacagi and Paula Dranisinukula have helped the young players perform to their best in the World Rugby series so far.

“To have four of those guys still mentoring these young men and showing them what they need to do to be an international athlete and then going on the field and doing it with them is probably the best learning ground these, I’m going to call them kids have been paying dividend for those young boys.”

Meanwhile, Botitu was named the DHL Impact player of Hamilton tournament.

The Fiji 7s side has won five titles in Australia, one each in Brisbane and three trophies at the Gold Coast 7s.

They are yet to win in Sydney.