Panthers hooker Api Koroisau will have big decision to make after being named in Fiji’s extended World Cup squad, despite putting his hand up to represent Australia.
The 29-year-old has played 16 Tests for his native Fiji, however midway through the season Koroisau put his hand up to be considered for the green and gold of Australia.
In-form Paramatta star Reagan Campbell-Gillard may also face a tough call after being named to make his first appearance for Fiji since 2014.
While Fiji coach Joe Rabele has acknowledged Koroisau’s interest in playing for Mal Meninga’s outfit he remains hopeful that he will represent Fiji at the World Cup in October.
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“I know that he has some interest to play for the Kangaroos, but the door is still open for Api Koroisau,” Rabele told a press conference in Fiji.
“Hopefully he will get back to me because we will send invitation letters to all the clubs for all the players that we select [to confirm] if they want to be part of this program, so we are waiting for them to respond.
“We are departing for England on October 25 so before we depart we need to select our best team that we can for the World Cup.
“At the moment we have to submit this squad to the World Cup so when we submit the names we have to work with this squad.”
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Koroisau could potentially join a wealth of talent in the Fijian squad which include the likes of Reagan Campbell-Gillard, Jacob Saifiti, Tariq Sims, Kevin Naiqama, Viliame Kikau, Maika Sivo, Tui Kamikamica and Daniel Saifiti.
Campbell-Gillard was also considered in the frame for Kangaroos squad selection and will have to decide if he makes himself available for Fiji,
“Those players in the grand final will come after the grand final,” Rabele said.
“Our warm-up match is against England so that is where we want to set up our structures for the game against Australia.
“Hopefully all the best players will be available for this World Cup campaign.”
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