The Fiji Rugby Union will not bow down to pressure from the rugby public on the selection criteria for the Digicel Fiji 7s coach to defend the Melrose Cup and lead the side to the 2008/2009 IRB 7s series.

When applications for the coaching post closed yesterday, top 7s coaches like Peni Veidreyaki, Iliesa Tanivula, Acura Niuqila, Manasa Bari, Waisale Serevi, Josateki Savou and some other local coaches have handed in their applications, however some of the candidates may not even be considered on the short list for interviews.

Fijivillage has received confirmation that it is a compulsory requirement for applicants to have an IRB level 2 Coaching Certificate which the FRU has stated will be implemented.

The other interesting factor is for the coach to have overseas experience in coaching a national team which could trim down the number of candidates to the likes of Peni Veidreyaki, Josateki Savou and Acura Niuqila.

Seven wizard Waisale Serevi is hoping that his record of winning the IRB 7s series for Fiji in 2006 and 2007 will carry some weight in his application since he does not have an IRB level 2 coaching certificate.

The name of the Fiji 7s coach will be announced in the next two week.