THE Swire Shipping Fijian Drua are set to host the Crusaders for the first time in the nation’s capital this Saturday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
After two successful home wins against the Crusaders in Lautoka, the Drua will look to extend their dominance in front of their home crowd in this crucial round eight match of the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.
Head coach Glen Jackson has made several key changes to his lineup including recalling Joe Tamani, Frank Lomani, Inia Tabuavou and Selestino Ravutaumada to the starting 15.
Young flanker Isoa Tuwai will make his first start, joining Tamani and Elia Canakaivata in the back row.
The forward pack features Haereiti Hetet, Tevita Ikanivere and Mesake Doge in the front row, with Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila in the second row.
Lomani and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula will pair up in the halfback positions, while Ponipate Loganimasi and Ravutaumada take the wings.
Tabuavou and Iosefo Masi will form the centre combination, with Vuate Karawalevu at fullback.
The bench is stacked with forwards Zuriel Togiatama, Emosi Tuqiri, Samuela Tawake and Leone Rotuisolia, while backs Simi Kuruvoli and Isikeli Rabitu will provide cover.
The Drua are eager to put on another strong performance in front of their fans, aiming for a third consecutive win over the Crusaders on home soil.
The match kicks off at 3.35pm.
