NATHAN Hirayama believes Fiji Airways men’s 7s team will be ready to defend the Paris Olympics gold.
The former Canadian 7s star fly-half said ‘you just can’t count Fiji out’.
“Fiji is struggling but will find its footing come the Paris Olympics, the team will be ready,” said Hirayama, who retired from the sport in 2021.
Hirayama said he’s a huge fan of Fiji, adores their skills, style, guile and comrade.
“Fiji will be up there in the Olympics, ready for a three peat.”
Tuwai -Fiji’s go to guy
Hirayama said with a new slate, the team needs a leader in the likes of Jerry Tuwai.
“Tuwai is the team.
“He’s the go to guy.”
Head coach Ben Gollings earlier said that the two-time Olympic Games gold medallist needed to play in the local tournaments and get in shape to earn a spot in the team.
The two were at odds, but have ironed out their wrinkles before the team departed for Vancouver Sevens.
“Tuwai knows his main focus is to get back into the condition and shape required for the Olympics,” said Gollings.
Hirayama said he’s got Tuwai’s back.
“Experience, leadership and respect that’s what he brings to the team.
“Given the player Tuwai is, he’ll get back in shape between ‘dawn to dusk’.”
