Australia refuses visa for Fijian
Fri, 21 Mar 2008 15:58
The Fiji Rugby Union has had to withdraw uncapped Jone Kuruduadua from its Sevens team for the Hong Kong Sevens because Australia has refused to grant him a transit visa on his journey to Hong Kong.
The Fijian side will travel through Sydney on its way to Hong Kong, for which a transit visa is required but the Australian High Commission in Suva refused to grant Jone Kuruduadua a visa.
A wing for his club Suva City Eagles was chosen as a forward for the Sevens team.
Kuruduadua, who is now 32, overstayed his visa in Australia some years ago and this was grounds for not allowing him the transit visa and also a visa to play in the Adelaide Sevens.
He told the Fiji Times: "I over-stayed in Australia while I visited my wife and child there in 2000. I was supposed to stay there for one year but returned home in 2002."
He went on to say: "It hurt when I was told by the team management that my visa through Aussie was not granted but like a man I've accepted it.
"I've trained and camped with these players and there's no doubt this is a very good team. I wish the players the best of luck in Hong Kong."
Epeli Vuniwaqa has been named as a replacement for Kuruduadua, Tavua-based policeman.
