Seruvakula names his first traveling squad for NRC opener
Fiji Airways Fijian Drua Coach Senirusi Seruvakula has named a mixture of young and experience in his 24-member traveling squad for the opening National Rugby Championship match against Brisbane City on Saturday.
Nadroga flanker Eremasi Radrodro will Captain the side supported by Flying Fijian Joeli Veitayaki, Serupepeli Vularika and Johnny Dyer, all playing a vital role in setting the benchmarks of high performance for the new look squad.
Seruvakula said “It’s important for the Fijian Drua to get off to a good start and the experienced players will play a vital role on Saturday.”
Vodafone Fijian Under-20 captain Tevita Ikanivere, Caleb Muntz, Joseva Nasaroa and Osea Waqa have also made the cut into the touring team to Australia.
“These young players have had a lot of game time during the Under-20s tour and have been very active from the first day in camp” said Seruvakula.
He highlighted that just one third of the 24 players were part of the Fiji Airways Fijian Drua side last year.
Seruvakula said “The players from last season know the expectation and have been leading with example during the training.
“It’s very important to make a good start and I know these players will give their best shot.”
Seruvakula expect Brisbane City to come out firing against the reigning champions.
“It’s going to be a tough game and we need to do our basics right plus keep building momentum.
“We also need to have composure and play for a full 80 minutes.”
The Fiji Airways Fijian Drua face Brisbane City, 5pm {FJT} at Ashgrove Sports Ground in Brisbane, Australia.
Fiji Airways Fijian Drua 24-member traveling squad
Joeli Veitayaki
Immanuel Naciva
Tevita Ikanivere
Maikeli Sivo
Mosese Ducivaki
Joseva Nasaroa
Nacani Nawaqadau
Epeli Radaniva
Tevita Naqali
Eremasi Radrodro
Ulaiasi Lawavou
Jone Navori
Rusiate Nasove
Johnny Dyer
Seru Vularika
Joseva Kuricuva
Peceli Nacebe
Caleb Muntz
Aporosa Tabulawaki
Cyrill Reece
Iferemi Tovilevu
Levani Kurumundu
Samisoni Viriviri
Osea Waqa