Viriviri revealed this yesterday indicating that all is now water under the bridge and he’s ready to play for his country again.
“Last year when we were getting ready to go to Hong Kong, the coach decided to drop me due to some personal reasons,” he said.
“But now everything is fine as we have talked it over and settled everything.”
The Dratabu, Nadi native, who is also part of John McKee’s extended Flying Fijians training squad, is adamant that he will win back his spot in the national7s team.
The 29-year-old knows that after the Olympic Games gold medal win the nation is counting on him in the upcoming Commonwealth Games and the Sevens Rugby World Cup in July.
“I have to be prepared at all times and keep on playing well. I’ve been working harder in regards to training for the upcoming 7s tournaments and the Commonwealth Games too,” he said.
Viriviri said he was aware that it wouldn’t be easy for him to find his spot in the final 12-member team.
“I’ve been training hard because I know there will be plenty of competition from these new players. As for me I will keep fighting to regain my position,” he said.
Viriviri said in 7s rugby, apart from the winger’s berth, he’s eyeing to play at rover as well.
“Right now I’m hoping to get a contract to further my career overseas.”
In the second day of the Nawaka 7s tournament, he played for Dratabu alongside fellow Olympian Kitione Taliga, and former Malolo XVs skipper Veniona Vuki. They lost 17-12 to Ravuka Sharks in the Bowl final.
“Playing in the Nawaka 7s enabled me to measure my level of fitness, which is excellent. I’m also aware that the standard of the game has gone up and this is where the selectors are watching us and I hope they do notice me as well.”
Viriviri is part of the Team Fiji men’s rugby sevens squad that was released by FASANOC last Friday. The 26-member squad will be reduced to 13 before they fly out to play in the Commonwealth Games in April.
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Waisea Nasokia
