FIJI Water Flying Fijians | Coach Names Squad to Face Canada

FIJI Water Flying Fijians Head Coach Senirusi Seruvakula has named a formidable side to take on Canada in their opening match of the Pacific Nations Championship in Japan this weekend.

 

The team travelled to Japan last weekend and have set up base in preparation to defend the PNC title – Fiji’s seventh title win came last year.

 

Coach Seruvakula has indicated that all is well in camp, with the team mainly made up of locally based players contracted to the Fijian Drua, along with a few debutants ready to make their mark on the international Test arena. He added that there are no injuries in the team and everyone is ready to go.

 

“We have four debutants in the team with two of them coming from the Fijian Drua camp – Isoa Tuwai and Penaia Cakobau stepping up – while Inoke Ravuiwasa and Terio Tamani have been selected from the Skipper Cup competition,” shared Coach Seruvakula.

 

“These guys showed potential when they walked into camp and have earned a spot heading into the match against Canada this weekend,” added Seruvakula.

 

Looking at the announced squad:

 

At the props, Peni Ravai and Mesake Doge pair up with Captain Tevita Ikanivere, who charges the team at hooker. Paring at the locks are Mesake Vocevoce and Temo Mayanavanua, while on the flanks of the front row the partnership between Kitione Salawa and Motikai Murray looks to be formidable. The anchor of the forward pack is Isoa Tuwai, making his debut in the white jersey.

 

Frank Lomani slots into the link between the backs and forwards at halfback, while Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula is charged with steering the team at number 10. The midfield combination of Kalaveti Ravouvou at 12 and Virimi Vakatawa at 13 is one to reckon with during the match, while the flanking wingers – 11 Manasa Mataele and 14 Joji Nasova – would provide some classy finishes along the sidelines. At fullback, Isikeli Rabitu gets his second cap as a Flying Fijian.

 

On the bench, Penaia Cakobau, Inoke Ravuiwasa and Terio Tamani get a chance at running onto the field alongside seasoned campaigners Meli Tuni, Isoa Nasilasila, Joseva Tamani, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Caleb Muntz.

 

You can watch the FIJI Water Flying Fijians versus Canada match this Saturday on Fiji One LIVE at 7pm.