Northampton Saints and Fiji Lock Temo Mayanavanua has revealed how Fijian Rugby is moving in the “right direction” as he reflects on his nation’s Pacific Nations Cup win.

The 26-year-old was part of the youngest-ever Fijian squad as they marched their way to the Pacific Nation Cup title after a 41-17 win over Japan. The lock reflected positively on the future of the rugby on the island with particular admiration for the switch in coaching of the national team.

He said: “I feel like we are in a really good spot together as a team and we are heading in the right direction.

“The management has been really good and that’s after we have had a few changes, and they have brought in a lot of experience and knowledge about the game.”

Mayanavanua added: “Rugby is a continuously growing sport and is not the same as it was two or three years ago.

“We can not be depending on what we did two, three years ago or even during the World Cup to take us through we’re always learning new things. For me, that is really good about the young squad that Fiji have.”

Making 11 appearances for the Green, Black and Gold last season he was also part of the Gallagher Premiership-winning Saints side that ended a 10-year title drought beating Bath at HQ back in June.

Despite coming off the back of a title-winning season the 6’6 forward understands that they need to chase and that they can’t sit back on previous success.

Mayanavanua said: “Everyone is focused on the new season and that’s what you want when you come in. What has been done is done, we were champions in my mindset and this year is a new season.

“We are not champions anymore and for me, we are attacking that trophy again rather than sitting back and defending it.”

The Fijian reflected on his success over the past season and put his achievements down to his uncle who was part of the Islanders gold medal winning team.

“I like the inspiration,” said Temo, “It all started with my uncle who won Fiji’s first gold medal at the Olympics and codified Fiji as a whole. Bringing together different beliefs and backgrounds.”

Source – Ruck.co