With the exception of Vilimoni Botitu, none of the key players initially named in the Flying Fijians squad for the match against Barbarians XV on Monday morning, have been released by their clubs.
Flying Fijians Head Coach, Mick Byrne says this is why he is taking the Fijian Drua side to the match.
“This is simply because the Northern Hemisphere boys aren’t able to be part of the side. The only who has been released for us is Vilimoni Botitu. We see the clubs releasing players who are part of the Barbarians XV but not releasing our boys.”
Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans, in a social media post described this as despicable behavior.
“When Fiji Rugby asked the English and French unions/clubs for their players to be released for the BaaBaas game this weekend, they were told “No, it’s outside the release window.” Yet eleven players from the same two leagues are released to play against them. Despicable behavior.”
Missing also from the line up will be number 8, Peceli Yato who has been ruled out due to injury.
Byrne said despite the hurdles the side is as ready as they can be for the game this weekend.
“Most of them have never played in the Northern Hemisphere so it will be good to see them go this weekend.”
The team departed Fiji last night and will play at Twickenham at 5.15pm on Sunday which will be 4.30am on Monday morning in Fiji,
