Fiji union denies Tabua reports

The Fiji Rugby Union has denied reports it is preparing to reinstate Ilivasi Tabua as national coach in its first response to Fiji's poor performance at the Rugby World Cup.

Fiji media reported that Tabua, who was fired in 2009 for serious misconduct, had been approached by FRU officials to make himself available if Sam Domoni is removed from his position.

Rugby union officials were due on Thursday to meet members of the 19-strong coaching and management team which accompanied Fiji to the World Cup for a performance review.

Fiji's only win was against Namibia, while the 66-0 loss in the last pool match against Wales was its worst defeat at a World Cup.

Tabua was fired two years ago but continues to challenge his dismissal through Fiji's employment court. Domoni replaced Tabua as head coach, but has won only three of 17 tests.

Fiji Rugby Union chairman Colonel Mosese Tikoitoga said no approach had been made to Tabua and all coaching or management positions which became vacant would be advertised.

"Any position within the Fiji Rugby Union that needs to be filled will go through the proper process of advertisement and then people need to apply ... and then we will go through the process of interviews and select the best candidate for the job," Tikoitoga said.

"At no stage will this board entertain individual agendas."

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