Fiji need Serevi says ex-coach

Fiji have included Test winger Sireli Bobo and former Canterbury Crusaders flyer Marika Vunibaka in a 25-member training squad for the Wellington leg of the IRB Sevens series, but there appears to be no room for the undisputed master of the abbreviated game - Waisale Serevi.

Serevi holds an unparalleled record at Sevens with five Hong Kong titles and one World Cup winners medal, along with three Hong Kong 'Most Valuable Player' awards.

The 36-year-old has stated that he wants to make a return for the Sevens Rugby World Cup in Hong Kong in March 2005, but said this would entirely be up to the selectors and the coach.

But Serevi's bid for a Sevens swansong received a boost on Tuesday when former Fiji coach Rupeni Ravonu and former national selector Graham Eden both called for his reinstatement in the squad.

"Bring Serevi back and let him be the anchor and mentor to that team," said Ravonu, who guided Serevi and Fiji to win the World Cup in 1997.

"Those boys will play outstandingly with his experience and leadership skills in the game."

Eden - also speaking to the Fiji Times - supported Ravonu's view, saying that Serevi would bolster the country's chances in Hong Kong.

"I think Serevi would find no difficulty identifying talented players for the World Cup because he would connect with them and would be able to pick out which ones were the best," he said.

A space could become available for Serevi after Vunibaka stated that he would consult Fiji officials before committing to a any further national Sevens duty.

The big wing is off to ply his trade in Japan after parting company with the Crusaders.

"My contract with Yamaha starts in March and I will most probably be in Japan maybe a month before that, but this will depend on how early they want me up there," he said.

"I am still available for Fiji and will step up to the challenge, but first we will have to sit and discuss what the plans are so we can come to an agreement."