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Former Fiji wing Bobo launches blistering attack on current Test squad
By Chris Jones
Former Flying Fijian wing Sireli Bobo has launched a blistering attack on the current international squad following the disappointing third place finish in the Pacific Nations Cup.
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Samoa won the Cup coming back from 17-3 down to Fiji to win 23-20 in the final round of games and Bobo dismisses criticism of head coach Vern Cotter and his staff, blaming the players for the Cup showing that started with a 36-0 win over Tonga and then hit the buffers with a 32-18 defeat by Australia A on home soil.
Bobo, who won 16 Fiji caps and played extensively in France for Biarritz, Pau, Racing Metro and Toulon told the Fiji Sun: “It seems they don’t have passion for their country and even pride for the jersey. The players should take a really good look at themselves.
“Many fans blamed the coach and his coaching staff but they had done their job. It’s the players’ attitude and how they prepare themselves mentally to get into a crunch match. Fact is, that we lost right here at home, right in our backyard, to a team that hardly beat us both home and away.
“It’s just unacceptable given the calibre of players and the records we have. These players should learn to have pride in the white jersey because they are not playing for themselves: they are playing for the people of Fiji. They have a huge responsibility when they put on that jersey. They are taking things lightly.
“I don’t know if they know the culture, history and the significance of the Flying Fijians jersey and how important it is to represent their country. These players should know and understand their purpose. Why they want to represent Fiji and who they are playing for?
“They should think about all the former national reps who once wore the jersey during those hard times with Fiji Rugby. Today, players are privileged to have everything done for them from training to playing.
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“It is things like their haircuts and attitude that they should work on. How they present themselves to the public, which is very important. This is the Flying Fijians team not a club team. Talent can take you anywhere, but your attitude carries you.”
