Serevi backs Tagi and Vakatawa

Fiji rugby icon Waisale Serevi has endorsed the selection of Luke Tagi and Virimi Vakatawa to the FIJI Water Flying Fijians squad. They are brought in as direct replacements for Semi Radradra and Tim Hoyt, who were sidelined by injuries sustained during the recent Nations Championship Test against Wales. Serevi's support highlights the team's strategic adjustments ahead of a challenging match.

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I believe it’ll fix the scrum a little bit during the Test against England.

Serevi specifically highlighted the addition of tighthead prop Luke Tagi, expressing confidence that Tagi will bring much-needed stability to Fiji's scrum. "I believe it’ll fix the scrum a little bit during the Test against England," Serevi stated. He acknowledged England's known strength in their forward pack but anticipates that Tagi's presence will bolster Fiji's performance in this critical area. The scrum has been identified as a potential weakness, and Tagi's inclusion is seen as a key solution.

The Fijian legend also voiced his strong support for Virimi Vakatawa, arguing that the experienced back deserves his recall and is capable of making an immediate impact. Vakatawa steps into the shoes of Semi Radradra, a significant loss for the team. Serevi believes Vakatawa's experience in Test rugby makes him well-suited to fill this void. "Veremi Vakatawa, with experience of playing Test rugby, he knows what to do. I believe it’s a good replacement coming in," he said.

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Veremi Vakatawa, with experience of playing Test rugby, he knows what to do. I believe it’s a good replacement coming in.

Serevi mentioned his conversations with several players, including Vakatawa, Mesake Doge, and Rambitutu, encouraging them to stay ready. He noted Vakatawa's recent strong performance against the Barbarians as evidence of his current form and readiness for Test rugby. Serevi sees Vakatawa as another significant threat in Fiji's backline, capable of covering the position effectively against England. The team's depth and player readiness are crucial as the campaign intensifies, with Fiji set to face England this Sunday.

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That’s another threat in the Fijian backline. If he has the opportunity to play this Saturday against England, we have that position covered.