Naqelevuki to redeem himself in George

by Brenden Nel | 08 December 2009 (08:45)

Sireli Naqelevuki © Gallo Images

Stormers winger Sireli Naqelevuki can finally get a chance to show the type of player he can be when he joins up with the Fijian side ahead of Friday's Emirates Airline George Sevens at Outeniqua Park.

Naqelevuki, who has endured the wrath of Western Province fans as he gave away a penalty that ultimately lost them the Currie Cup semifinal in October, has not had the best of years in the Cape and would love to end the season off with a big performance in George.

But the big Fijian might well receive a mixed reception when he puts on the Fijian jersey in front of home fans, especially if the South Sea Islanders have to face the Springboks at some point in the competition.

Fiji beat South Africa 17-5 in the quarterfinals last weekend in Dubai but ultimately lost to eventual champions New Zealand in the competition.

According to Teivovo, two of their players - Jerry Burotu and Niumaia Cakacaka picked up injuries in Dubai and have been ruled out of the George tournament. Instead of flying players over from Fiji, who would have only arrived shortly before the tournament, the Fijians opted to call on Naqelevuki.

Fiji are in a tricky group B in George - and will face Australia, Portugal and Russia in their pool matches.

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