Players reap what they sow

Fiji Times - Wednesday, July 09, 2008 12:41 PM

PLAYERS selected in the Fiji side for international duties, have to be honest in what they do and not look after their interests only.

Former Suva and Global Barbarians coach Epi Kolinivala raised this issue after Fiji lost 16-27 to Tonga, in the last round of the 2008 Pacific Nations Cup in Nukualofa on Saturday.

This result meant the national side finished fourth in the competition, behind champions New Zealand Maori, Australia A and Samoa.

"The bottom line is honesty. You will reap at the end what you have planted," Kolinivala said.

"This is for all including players, officials and the Fiji Rugby Union as a whole.

"NZ Rugby is successful because of honesty from top down, if you do not perform you kicked out and there is no room for development at national level.

"This is Test rugby and not provincial."

Kolinivala, who was a former Fiji 7s selector, said local players at times were only trying to secure overseas contracts by wearing the Fiji jumper.

He said the national side should follow the lead of Naitasiri, when the Highlanders were champions of Fiji rugby.

"When Naitasiri was the champion, they showed guts and the will to win," he said.

He said Coach Ilivasi Tabua, should be given the full backing with the best support staff for a successful future.