SWIRE Shipping Fijian Drua co-captains Mesulame Dolokoto and Iosefo Masi will once again lead the charge as the Drua brace for a physical Round 10 clash against the NSW Waratahs at Churchill Park in Lautoka this Saturday.
Head coach Glen Jackson has named a strong side with several exciting returns.
Young fullback Isikeli Rabitu gets the nod at 15, while powerful openside flanker Motikiai Murray is thrust straight into the starting line-up.
Kemu Valetini also features in the matchday 23, and Leone Nawai returns to the squad as halfback cover following Frank Lomani’s season-ending injury.
In the starting 15, Peni Ravai makes a start at loosehead prop with Mesake Doge at tight head and Dolokoto at hooker. Isoa Nasilasila will pair with Leone Rotuisolia in the middle row.
Etonia Waqa is back this week at blindside flanker with Murray at openside. Elia Canakaivata retains his place at number 8.
In the backline, Simione Kuruvoli starts at halfback, partnering Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula who is at flyhalf.
Ponipate Loganimasi starts at left wing with the returning Taniela Rakuro coming in this week to claim the right-wing spot.
Tuidraki Samusamuvodre is back in the starting line-up, shifting to inside centre this week with Iosefo Masi will start at the outside centre position. Isikeli Rabitu is at fullback.
For bench impact this week, Jackson has selected Zuriel Togiatama as backup hooker, Emosi Tuqiri at loosehead and Samuela Tawake covering the tight head prop position.
Vilive Miramira will cover for the locks and Isoa Tuwai backs up the loose forward trio. Leone Nawai will cover halfback with Kemu Valetini covering flyhalf. Inia Tabuavou completes matchday squad as backline utility.
Coach Jackson said, “We’ve had a strong week of preparation. There’s plenty of motivation from the last time we played the Waratahs, we know we let one slip and its payback time.
“It’s been a focus all week. We can’t afford to ease into this one.”
Kick-off is at 2.05pm, with gates opening at 12 noon as fans prepare to fill Churchill Park for another thrilling home match.
