Fiji sevens coach Ben Ryan expects France-bound flyer Semi Kunatani to remain a key member of his team next season.
The 24 year old was a vital cog in Fiji's World Series winning team, finishing as the competition's third top try-scorer and being nominated for world player of the year.
He will begin a two year deal with French giants Toulouse later this year but Ben Ryan says he will still feature in the seven-a-side game.
"I was aware about all the various steps along the way with Semi's offers that he'd had in France, from a number of clubs. He made, along with some trusted people around him, the decision to go to Toulouse. Once that was made I tried to do all I can to help him through in the release of tournaments, so he will get released for four yet to be decided World Series tournaments next year and then of course Olympic Games preparation and the Olympic Games itself. His selection of course for the Olympics will be based, as ever, on form: he will have to prove he's still got what it takes when he comes back after his fifteens in Toulouse".
Ben Ryan says any overseas-based players will have to play in at least two World Series tournaments next season to be considered for Fiji's Olympic team.
Semi Kunatani during Fiji's Sevens World Series winning 2014/15 campaign. Photo: World Rugby / Martin Seras Lima
