Fiji Head Coach Simon Raiwalui has confirmed that veteran back-rower Peceli Yato has withdrawn from the wider training squad, ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The circumstances regarding Yato’s departure have not been confirmed by the FRU, yet the Clermont man becomes the second high-profile player to drop out from the Flying Fijians squad. He follows on from the recent exit of experienced lock Api Ratuniyarawa, as the former London Irish man finds a new home.
Ratuniyarawa has ended his time in Free Agent limbo, after agreeing a deal with Bayonne, and joining Yato in the French Top 14. Ratuniyarawa’s contractual commitments see take him out of the Rugby World Cup plans, for an early arrival in France. The absences of Ratuniyarawa and Yato have been felt by the Fiji squad, yet they were able to come together for an impressive 36-20 win over Pacific Island rivals Tonga last Saturday.
Raiwalui discussed Yato’s departure with Fijian outlet FBC News. “He had great preparation and in the past weeks he was an outstanding leadership, leading the boys from and unfortunately there was a situation and he chose to leave the camp and I respect that.”
Embed from Getty ImagesFiji’s Rugby World Cup preparations continue throughout the ongoing Pacific Nations Cup. The Pacific Islanders are set to take on Oceanic rivals Manu Samoa as well as the Brave Blossoms of Japan, before they make their trip up to the Northern Hemisphere. Fiji’s final match before they commence their Rugby World Cup campaign, is a hotly anticipated battle with Steve Borthwick’s England team at Twickenham Stadium on August 26th.