SEVEN players from the 2021 women’s Rugby World Cup Fijiana squad will be making their second appearance in England this weekend as the 2025 edition of the tournament gets underway.
These players include Bitila Tawake, Ema Adivitaloga, Wainikiti Vasuturaga, Vika Matarugu, Asinate Serevi, Karalaini Naisewa and Kolora Lomani.
Tawake and Adivitaloga are in the starting line-up while the remaining five will come off the bench.
These two along with Vasuturaga, Naisewa and Serevi have three world cup caps.
Of the 23 named, 16 of them will be making their women’s Rugby World Cup debut against Canada.
Fijiana head coach Ioan Cunningham based his selection on two key factors.
“Rewarding performances was one key factor in selecting the team for this match.
“Players who have been performing well and consistently deserve the opportunity.”
While ranking and experience favours Canada which is playing in its 10th tournament, Cunningham said they must focus on their own game.
“I don’t think we can select to combat the style of rugby that Canada play. We
must focus on ourselves and our strengths – what we can do well to put
pressure on Canada and create scoring opportunities. Canada is a very good
team, so our focus must be on us.”
The Fijiana will take on Canada tomorrow morning at 4.30 at York Community Stadium in England.
Match-day 23: Loraini Senivutu, Bitila Tawake, Tiana Robanakadavu, Jade Coates, Mereoni Nakesa, Nunia Daunimoala, Alfreda Fisher, Manuqalo Komaitai, Setaita Railumu, Salanieta Kinita, Repeka Tove, Josifini Neihamu, Ema Adivitaloga, Ilisapeci Delaiwau, Litiana Vueti, Selai Naliva, Wainikiti Vasuturaga, Vika Matarugu, Asinate Serevi, Karalaini Naisewa, Kolora Lomani, Kelerayani Luvu, Salote Nailolo.