Nadroga lock forward Rupeni Nasiga has been drafted into the Digicel Fiji 7s squad for the IRB Dubai 7s and George 7s to replace Nadi’s Isei Lewaqai who has been taken ill with chicken pox.

“This is obviously very disappointing for Isei as he was about to make his international debut,” Digicel Fiji 7s manager Opetaia Ravai said. “But this also opens the door for Rupeni Nasiga, who has been one of the most improved young players over the past 12 months.”

Nasiga, 22, narrowly missed out on selection for the Rugby World Cup this year after playing well in the Colonial Cup and Pacific Rugby Cup. He also played for Fiji in the 2006 U21 World Championship.

The revised Digicel Fiji 7s team to Dubai is as follows:

Forwards
Etonia Naba (capt, Nadroga)
Viliame Maya (Ovalau)
Rupeni Nasiga (Nadroga)
Iliesa Ratuva (Nadroga)
Epeli Vuniwaqa (Tavua)



Backs
Setefano Cakau (Suva)
Vereniki Goneva (Nadi)
Tomasi Mawi (Suva)
Akuila Nawerecagi (Falcons, RSA)
Neumi Nanuku (v/capt, Nadroga)
Saimoni Nuku (Nadi)
Emosi Vucago (Nadroga)
 

Officials:
Opetaia Ravai (manager)
Josateki Savou (coach)
Venasio Ramabuke (physio)



Non-travelling reserves
Sakenasa Aca (Naitasiri)
Taniela Rawaqa (Nadi)