The first fitness test for the Flying Fijians this morning is important as the selectors will give their non-European based players a chance to win a place in the Rugby World Cup squad.

The players will also get an opportunity to play in a series of matches against Super 15 franchises and academies from next month.

Fiji will be playing newcomers the Melbourne Rebels and the Waratahs as part of their Super Rugby warm up before taking on academy teams from the Brumbies, Crusaders, Chiefs and Blues.

Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer Keni Dakuidreketi said matches would be played as curtain raisers to the Super 15 Rugby games.

The Fiji team will be made up of players based at home, in Australia, New Zealand and Japan.

Those who impress the selectors will be considered for the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand and will also be used in preparation for the Pacific Nations Cup in Japan in July.


Story by: Dhanjay Deo