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Yato aims for a spot in Rugby World Cup team

Yato aims for a spot in Rugby World Cup team
Clermont flanker Peceli Yato at today's training session

Being part of the Vodafone Flying Fijians is a dream come true but to be given a chance to play in the Rugby World Cup next month is something that Clermont flanker Peceli Yato is working hard to achieve.

The 22-year-old from Narewa village in Nawaicoba, Nadroga is one of the young players in the side and is also giving tough competition to experienced forwards including captain Akapusi Qera, Netani Talei, Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Malakai Ravulo and Masi Matadigo.

Yato says after playing for Fiji in the Pacific Nations Cup, the passion to fight for his country has pushed him beyond his limit to try and get a spot for the final 31.

He played for the Nadroga Under 20 team in 2012 and 2013 before securing a contract for the Clermont Rugby Academy.

He says that his father used to stop him from playing rugby while in high school but he managed to have a long conversation with his parents and promised them that he will only play for a short time in Fiji and try to get a contract overseas to help his family.

Yato is also the first cousin of former national 7's rep Joeli Lutumailagi. 

Meanwhile the former Sigatoka Valley High School student believes that Fiji, Samoa and Tonga are serious threats in the World Cup.

Flying Fijians coach John McKee will name his 31 players this Friday.

They will take on England in their first pool game at 7am on the 19th of next month.

FNRL

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