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Fiji are desperate to put a couple of turbulent months behind them in a bid to defend their Rugby World Cup Sevens crown at next week's World Cup in Dubai.

Following the controversial dismissal of Waisale Serevi, a relatively experienced squad has been picked for their World Cup defence. Despite sending a young side to Wellington and San Diego five of the winning team from the successful 2005 Hong Kong are included, with seven of the squad based overseas. The squad was announced at the end of last weekends Marist Samoa Sevens.

French-based Vilimoni Delasau, Jone Daunivucu, Neumi Nanuku, Sireli Bobo, Napolioni Nalaga have all made the cut as has Gloucester’s Apolosi Satala. Man mountain Semisi Naevo is also included and is in contention to skipper the side along with Delasau.

The enigma William Ryder was again forced to withdraw following a nasty gash to his right ankle which has since swollen. Fijian based Peni Rokodiva, perhaps the one Fijian to shine in recent times proving he has the tools to fill the playmaker role, Seremaia Burotu and Vereniki Goneva are the other home-grown selections.

Fiji coach Iliesa Tanivula said while the World Cup was only a week away, preparations were on the right track and he his happy with his squad, this despite a large chunk of the squad not having played much sevens in recent times.

"We have a few players who can fit in both backs and forwards and that is why we have gone for them," Tanivula said.

"It's a good mix. We have the overseas-based players who have been there and done that and who are very experienced.

"We have the local players who have shown great improvement in their game."

Fiji World Cup Squad:

Seremaia Burotu, Semisi Naevo, Napolioni Nalaga, Apolosi Satala and Pio Tuwai, Sireli Bobo, Jone Daunivucu, Vilimoni Delasau, Vereniki Goneva, Neumi Nanuku, Peni Rokodiva and Watisoni Votu.