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Fiji Sevens captain's grovelling apology for 'error of judgement' but European move a step closer
By Chris Jones
Fiji Sevens captain Kalione Nasoko, who has made a public apology for his arrest for drink driving, but it's not stopped a top European club lining up him up.
Nasoko is wanted by Glasgow Warriors and is expected to take part in a month’s trial alongside team mate Mesulame Kunavula in November.
Nasoko and Kunavalu are en-route with the troubled Fiji Sevens squad to North America for the Las Vegas and Vancouver legs of the HSBC World Seven Series with head coach Gareth Baber trying to ensure the players are not affected by speculation and controversy. Nasoko pleaded guilty to drink driving after being stopped by police and breathalysed and must return to court to hear the conclusion of his case at the end of March.
Before leaving Fiji, Nasoko made an emotional apology for his actions saying: “I’m thankful to our FRU CEO Mr O’Connor, Coach Mr Gareth Baber, for their support. I would like to humbly apologise to the people of Fiji for letting you down and representing Fiji is an honour. I made a mistake to drive my vehicle that morning and I acknowledge that error of judgment and I’m regretful for the decision I made. It is my hope that this occasion be a learning to me and to assure you a hundred percent clear before picking up your keys to drive. I never intended to cause damage or harm the reputation or the legacy of the white jersey. I’m truly sorry and I hope to earn back the trust from you all through my future behaviour. Thank you for your support and everything we do is to make Fiji proud.”
Now, Fiji Rugby Union Chief Executive John O’Connor has, according to local media, confirmed FRU have received interest from Glasgow Warriors for the two players and they are likely to travel to Scotland in November for a month’s trail. The Pro 14 outfit has strong links with the Fijian rugby community which would make a move easier for the players. Kunavula is also interesting Bordeaux Begles who need cover at No8 for their Top 14 campaign.
Fiji, who won back to back Sevens legs in Cape Town and Hamilton, are in the same Las Vegas pool as Scotland, Wales and Australia.
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Latest Comments
Don't think you've watched enough. I'll take him over anything I's seen so far. But let's see how the future pans out. I'm quietly confident we have a row of 10's lined uo who would each start in many really good teams.
Go to commentsHopefully Joe stays where he is. That would mean Les, McKellar, larkham and Cron should as well. It’s the stability we need in the state programs. But, if Joe goes, RA with its current financial situation will be forced into promoting from within. And this will likely destabilise other areas.
To better understand some of the entrenched bitterness of those outside of NZ and NSW (as an example 😂), Nic, there is probably a comparison to the old hard heads of welsh rugby who are still stuck in the 1970s. Before the days where clubs merged, professionalism started, and the many sharp knives were put into the backs of those who loved the game more than everyone else. I’m sure you know a few... But given your comparison of rugby in both wales and Australia, there are a few north of the tweed that will never trust a kiwi or NSWelshman because of historical events and issues over the history of the game. It is what it is. For some, time does not heal all wounds. And it is still festering away in some people. Happy holidays to you. All the best in 2025.
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