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Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) chief executive Keni Dakuidreketi has confirmed the participation of the national sevens side in the international section of the Digicel Suva Rugby Festival early next year (15-23 January)

This after national coach Iliesa Tanivula was quoted in a local paper saying he is was unaware of the team's participation and the side will not take part in this inaugural tournament.

Dakuidreketi said the arrangement on the team's participation in this international sevens tournament was long made.

"Probably the coach (Tanivula) was not aware of the arrangements. We are fielding a team in this tournament and we are looking forward for that," he said.

Tournament media manager Jeremy Duxbury said FRU confirmed the national sevens team's participation in August this year.

"We have in writing from the CEO (Dakuidreketi) several months ago confirming that a national team will take part in this tournament."

Meanwhile, the unconfirmed international team in Pool D has been identified.

The Canadian Maples Leafs side is placed alongside top seed Samoa, local team Ratu Filise and a runner-up team from the Labasa tournament. It is set to be a busy period for Morgan William’s Canadians who have also confirmed their presence at the Punta del Este event in Uruguay.

The international section of the Suva Rugby Festival will be held from January 21-23 at the TFL National Stadium.

Digicel Suva Rugby Festival (International 7s):

Pool A: Fiji, Tonga, Waimanu, Wild Card.
Pool B: USA, Western Force, Army, Labasa 7s (1).
Pool C: Manawatu, Hong Kong, Suva, Wild Card.
Pool D: Samoa, Canadian Maples Leafs, Ratu Filise, Labasa 7s (2).