2 Feb 2011

Fiji searching for a return to winning ways

11:30 am on 2 February 2011

With an injection of new players, defending champions Fiji are hoping to rediscover their winning formula at the Wellington leg of the IRB Sevens Series, which starts on Friday.

Wellington was the only title success for Iliesa Tanivula's men last season and the 36 year old has brought in five new faces, including Red Rock speedster Peni Gaunimeke.

Tanivula says the new caps have earnt their opportunity but says it's a team effort that's required if they're to defend their crown.

"It was based on performance. There's some young guns in the team and a couple of old heads. It's a mix of the old and new so hopefully we get it on this weekend. I'd like to see our senior players take the lead, and for the rest of the guys to follow through but I guess it's the whole twelve - just to step up at this international tournament and every year is just getting stronger and other teams have really been competing well."

Fiji face South Africa, France and Canada in pool play.