Hosting Tier One nations would help build the Flying Fijians in their preparation for the 2027 Rugby World.

This was the comment of head coach Mick Byrne as they anticipate the July international tests where Fiji will host Scotland after the Wallabies in Sydney.

“I think it’s great for us to be able to host tier one countries,” he told SUNsports yesterday.

“As we move forward hopefully the Nations tournament in 2026 where we’re part of it enables us to host other tier one teams.

“To be able to play tier one teams in the lead up to our World Cup preparation is fantastic, to be able to do it at home is even better,” Byrne added.

He said while it was unfortunate not to host Australia, Byrne hopes that would eventuate in future.

“We’re just happy to be able to get a tier one team and have tier one games organised and challenge ourselves at that level. Fiji beat the Wallabies 22-15, in their last clash at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in SaintEtienne, France.

Byrne understands that the men in the gold will be out to seek revenge on that loss.

“The good thing about coaching the Flying Fijians is the passionate support and everyone expects you to win, which is great.

“I think we’ll just prepare ourselves and get across there. Each year is a different year and each game is a different game.

“Australia will be working really hard to make sure that they make it and we’ll be working extremely hard to beat Australia in their own backyard.”

Fiji faces the Wallabies on July 6 before they return home to host Scotland the following weekend.

Fiji is currently ranked ninth below both Australia and Scotland who are at number eight and six respectively.

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj