Ryan to select locally-based team for Hong Kong 7s

Vodafone Fiji 7 coach Ben Ryan will select a locally‑based squad for next month’s Hong Kong 7s as they ramp up preparations for the Rio Olympics.

Ryan says it was disappointing to lose to South Africa in the semifinal in Vancouver as it was an opportunity to put real daylight between Fiji and rest of the teams in the series.

The national squad is on a one week break before assembling for a two‑week training block to prepare for Hong Kong.

He says this is a bit of a mental dress rehearsal for Rio.

He told the players that they will have to focus on the next leg and win Hong Kong.

Ryan adds that winning in Hong Kong with local players will heighten the chances of the team going to Brazil being locally based.

Despite losing their last two matches in Canada, Ryan is pleased to keep their spot at the top of the standings.

The Hong Kong 7s will be held from the 8th to the 10th of next month.

Fiji is the defending champion.