SWIRE SHIPPING Fijian Drua players Sairusi Ravudi and Iosefo Namoce are set to debut against the Brumbies at 4R Stadium at Govind Park in Ba this Saturday.
Ravudi, a standout from Nakorovou, Dreketi in Rewa with maternal links to Nasukamai, Nalawa in Ra, has climbed through the ranks from New Zealand Fijian Secondary Schools to the Fiji U20 squad. Making his Super Rugby Pacific debut in the Western Division is a special homecoming for the talented development player.
Namoce, a powerhouse forward recruited from the Fiji Airways 7s programme, has impressed during pre-season trials with his raw strength and determination. His first cap is a reward for hard work and a testament to the Drua’s commitment to developing national talent.
Ponipate Loganimasi returns from injury to earn his No 11 jersey and the local strength of the Ba boys Joji Nasova fresh off his debut against the Hurricanes will wear the 14 jersey in front his home crowd with his fellow mate and forward Isoa Tuwai coming off the bench.
Head coach Glen Jackson expressed his excitement.
“The energy from the Ba community during our open training on Tuesday was electric.
“Sairusi brings a high rugby IQ and a great pedigree, while Iosefo provides that raw power we need in the back end of the game. There is no better place for these young men to start their professional journeys than right here in Ba.”
Matchday 23 squad
1. Haereiti Hetet; 2. Zuriel Togiatama; 3. Mesake Doge; 4. Mesake Vocevoce; 5. Isoa Nasilasila; 6. Etonia Waqa; 7. Motikiai Murray; 8. Elia Canakaivata; 9. Frank Lomani (c); 10. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula; 11. Ponipate Loganimasi; 12. Isikeli Rabitu; 13. Tuidraki Samusamuvodre; 14. Joji Nasova; 15. Ilaisa Droasese
Impact: 16. Sairusi Ravudi (potential debut/Drua Development player; 17. Emosi Tuqiri; 18. Peni Ravai; 19. Vilive Miramira; 20. Kitione Salawa; 21. Isoa Tuwai; 22. Issak Fines-Leleiwasa; 23. Iosefo Namoce (potential debut)
