Fijian rugby player Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens will return to the field tomorrow night when the Highlanders take on the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua in in New Zealand.
Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, who has been out of action for more than six months due to injury, has been named to start at fullback for the Highlanders in their round nine of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific match in Dunedin.
The 23-year-old, who has Fijian roots is expected to bring energy and skill to the team, especially after the loss of their regular fullback Finn Hurley, who is out for the rest of the season.
Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens will join three other players with Fijian connections in the Highlanders starting team, winger Jona Nareki, midfielder, Timoci Tavatavanawai and flanker Veveni Lasaqa.
Speaking to the Highlanders media, head coach Jamie Joseph said the team had a tough tour in Australia, but they’re happy to be back playing at home.
“We’re five points outside the top six now, so everyone is clear on the challenge in front of us,” he said.
Joseph said the team hasn’t been finishing well in recent games, but he’s confident they will play hard against the Drua.
The Drua are also aiming for a win to keep their chances of making the playoffs alive.
The Highlanders’ squad includes experienced players like Ethan de Groot, Folau Fakatava, and co-captains Hugh Renton and Timoci Tavatavanawai.
Youngster Taniela Filimone is also set to make his debut for the Highlanders.
The match kicks off at 7.05pm tomorrow at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
