Deuba brothers make Fiji 7s team

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Deuba brothers, Avenisi Vasuinubu and Waisea Nayacalevu, had their prayers answered after they were named into the 12-member Fiji 7s team for the second leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series.

They took the national rugby 7s selectors by surprise when they played for the Jim Beam Uprising team at the Uprising Fiji International 7s Festival in Suva last weekend.

Nayacalevu, who is the older of the two, said he worked hard to become a Fiji rep after returning from Melbourne, Australia.

“I was determined to impress the selectors at the Uprising 7s,” he said.
Vasuinubu, on the other hand, said after talking with assistant national coach Etuate Waqa everything seemed to work to plan.

“My prayer was answered. I had thought about playing for Fiji and I did not know that it was going to be so soon.”
The 19-year-old speedster said he had been playing for the Uprising 7s team since he was 15.

“Our coach Rene Munch has been my mentor but for me making the national team was a far away dream.”
Vasuinubu said even before the announcement of the 12-member squad to play in Wellington and Las Vegas, he was still not sure of his selection.

“When I heard my name announced it confirmed everything.”
Nayacalevu said playing alongside his younger brother urged him on to do his best

“I never got any chance to play in the Deans Trophy competition when I was a student at Lomary. But I played club rugby for the village team and both of us  played for the Namosi Rugby Union.

“I played some provincial games for Namosi in the Digicel Cup competition in 2010 and joined the Uprising 7s team before Rene got me to travel and play in Melbourne.

“Just like my brother, I’ve just realised now that I’m really in the team. I want to give my best and be able to help the team win.”
Nayacalevu said they were grateful to Munch and their Uprising teammates for their words of encouragement and support.

The 12-member squad: Setefano Cakau (Captain), James Brown, Emosi Vucago, Lepani Botia, Sekonaia Kalou, Nemani Nagusa, Osea Kolinisau, Jone Tiko, Taniela Rawaqa, Metuisela Talebula, Waisea Nayacalevu, and Avenisi Vasuinubu.
Non-travelling reserves are: Jimilai Naikadawa, Malakai Volau, Josateki Naisilisili and Isimeli Taqea.