Flying Fijians coach Vern Cotter named a strong line up to face the mighty All Blacks tomorrow night.
“We are going to play Fijian rugby which suits us and in which we are good at,” Cotter said.
Cotter has named a well balanced 23-member squad which sees Tailevu halfback and youngster Simione Kuruvoli start for the Flying Fijians at half back against All Blacks talisman and match captain Aaron Smith.
“He has big shoes to fill but he has trained really well, speaks and connects well with Ben Volavola plus he has got Kini Murimiruvalu at full-back who will also guide him.”
Kuruvoli gets his call up after experienced halfback Frank Lomani together with Mosese Sorovi and Teti Tela could not travel to Christchurch because of the recent COVID-19 outbreak in Australia.
Peni Ravai, Sam Matavesi and Mesake Doge will lead the pack in the front row, guided by the experienced hands of Leone Nakarawa in the second row and Albert Tuisue at umber eight.
“Leone Nakarawa coming back in the team has helped cohesion in the lineout and lineout calling as he brings experience. Some young players have been named on the bench, such as Peni Narisia who plays for Brive, and has been playing well and has impressed us.
“We will need leadership and the forwards will have to be very good because we have to protect Simione Kuruvoli who is only having his second game with Fiji, against the All Blacks and his opponent is Smith, so it will be a great day for him, therefore, the forwards must be strong to protect him.
Ben Volavola and Simione Kuruvoli share the halves positions, with powerful pairing in captain Levani Botia and Waisea Nayacalevu bolstering the midfield. Nemani Nadolo and Eroni Sau are on the wings with Kini Murimurivalu is at full-back. Flying Fijians face the All Blacks at 7pm at the Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin on Saturday.
