The Fiji Water Flying Fijians will begin their Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup campaign against Canada under a new competition format that features two semi-finals before the tournament final.

Fiji will face Canada in one semi-final, while Japan takes on the United States in the other, with the winners progressing to the championship decider.

Head coach Senirusi Seruvakula says the new format gives players an important opportunity to step up, particularly with the Nations Cup coming up in November.

“This is very important for us, especially for these players to step up. The Nations Cup is also coming up in November and they need to put their hands up if they really want to represent the Nations Cup. But one step at a time, so we need to focus on this game against Canada and we need to play according to the way we want to go forward.”

He says the immediate focus, however, remains on Canada and ensuring the Flying Fijians execute the style of rugby they want to take forward.

The Flying Fijians will need to win their opening match to keep their title hopes alive before turning their attention to the final or third-place playoff.

“It’s only two games. So it’s the only semi-finals and then the finals is the following week. So, it’s the only two matches that will be played during the PNC.”

Meanwhile, the match will be live on Fiji One and available to stream on Io.live.