Rugby World Cup
Nacewa opts against Fiji return
ESPNscrum Staff
June 10, 2011
Leinster's isa Nacewa stretches the Leicester defence, Leinster v Leicester, Heineken Cup Quarter Final, Aviva Stadium, Dublin, April 9, 2011
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Players/Officials: Isa Nacewa | Jone Qovu Nailiko
Tournaments/Tours: Rugby World Cup
Teams: Fiji | Leinster

Leinster fullback Isa Nacewa has decided not to rekindle his international career with Fiji at this year's Rugby World Cup.

The in-form 28-year-old, who claimed his solitary Test cap during the 2003 World Cup, cited family reasons for his decision while Racing Metro No.8 Jone Qovu has also revealed he will not be available for the sport's showpiece event that kicks off in New Zealand in September.

"My pregnant wife and my twin girls are my number one priority at the moment," explained Nacewa, who became the first foreigner to be voted Ireland's Player of the Year last month. "However, I wish the Fiji team and management all the best in the exciting year that follows and especially at the Rugby World Cup. Fiji has a competitive team at the World Cup and one that will go a long way."

Qovu has also decided to put his family first, commenting, "My wife is pregnant and my main focus now is looking after her. I am at ease with this decision as I know there are more than enough players around who can replace me."

Fiji coach Sam Domoni accepted the duo's decision and immediately put his thoughts to the rest of his squad. "Players, like Nacewa and Qovu, need to look after their young family's welfare and that's a priority for any player, " he said. "The decision they've made is respected and we now need to move forward as a team with the players we have got."

Fiji kick off their Pacific Nations Cup campaign against Tonga at Lautoka's Churchill Park on 2 July. The face Wales, South Africa, Samoa and Namibia in Pool D at this year's World Cup.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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