Defending champion Army will be without Jope Tuikabe and Setareki Tawake today at the Pemtel Paperchase Kasavu Sevens at Ratu Cakobau Park.
An article published by The Fiji Times on January 28, 2000, stated the soldiers were hoping the national reps would be released that weekend, but then national coach Peni Veidreyaki was running out of time.
Veidreyaki said the national reps would play as much as a team at one of the tournaments.
“I want to test the players in a tournament this weekend, perhaps at the Kasavu sevens and work on our combination,” he said.
Kasavu secretary Marika Luveniyali said with or without the national side, fans would be assured a feast of sevens that weekend.
“We had to turn down several number two teams, but we have the big teams in the East.
“We are thankful to our sponsor who wants to contribute to rugby at corporate level and exposed the untapped talents.”
A record 80 teams had entered the two-day tournament which started on a rural note in 1969 with 24 teams.
Paperchase had donated $5000 of which $2000 would go to the winner.
“Next year will definitely be a bigger event with a bigger prize money.”
With the Army ranks depleted by Tuikabe and Tawake’s absence, focus could shift to Natuicake, Waimanu, Nausori Prisons, Marist and the national team.
Fire, which stretched Army the previous week said it would play at the Nasinu sevens at Valelevu that weekend as well.
Pool games kicked off on that day at Ratu Cakobau Park from 9am and at the Golf ground from 3pm.
Admissions into Ratu Cakobau Park was $3 for adults and $1 for children.
