Injured Digicel Fiji 7s forwards specialist Jimilai Naikadawa’s serious knee injury has forced him to miss the NZ and Las Vegas 7s in February.
He has been ruled out from all levels of rugby for at least two months.
Team physiotherapy Willaim Koong said that the injury will need surgery to help him recover quickly to allow him to continue playing.
He added captain, Setefano Cakau will be placed on a brace for the next week and undergo intense physiotherapy for the next 6 weeks to be able to participate in Wellington.
Meanwhile, assistant coach Etuate Waqa said that replacement players, Pio Tuwai and Aminiasi Nava have a lot of experience on their hands to deliver well in Dubai.
Looking at the line-up that will meet Argentina in the first pool game, captain Watisoni Votu will lead the charge alongside James Brown and Sainivalati Vunibola, Joeli Lutumailagi will be at wing, Osea Kolinisau at rover, Livai Ikanikoda at playmaker and Emosi Vucago at halfback.
Fiji’s first game against Argentina is at 7:04pm tomorrow and then at 10.46pm Fiji takes on United Arab Emirates.
On Saturday at 4.06am, Fiji takes on Samoa.
Story by: Selina Navuso
Naikadawa ruled out for 2 months
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