Fiji Under-20 Head Coach Apisai Sailada has revealed an electrifying 30-member squad set to compete in the forthcoming Oceania Rugby U20 Challenge in New Zealand.

Sailada said the wealth of talent within the extended squad, made the final selection a rigorous process.

“I commend the player’s commitment, which fostered intense competition within the team. The squad predominantly comprises of athletes from the High-Performance Program, as well as the prestigious Deans competition and the domestic competitions,” he said.

A pivotal inclusion comes in the form of Fijian Drua half-backs Philip Baselala and Sikeli Rabitu, currently integral members of the Fijian Drua extended squad.

Additionally, three promising Drua development players, Sikeli Basiyalo, Aisea Tuisese, and Aisea Nawai, have earned their places in the squad, further enriching its depth and potential.

Coach Sailada said, “The team is well prepared, and we are looking forward to a good campaign as we start in New Zealand with the Oceania Championship and later move our preparations towards the Junior World Cup in South Africa.”

The highly anticipated Oceania Rugby U20s Challenge is scheduled to kick off on February 27 in Auckland, New Zealand.