Fiji Rugby has named a 32-member FIJI Water Flying Fijians squad for the upcoming Nations Championship, with Acting Head Coach Senirusi Seruvakula backing a blend of experienced internationals and players in strong club form for the demanding European tour.
The Flying Fijians will face Wales, England and Scotland in three Test matches across the United Kingdom in July as they begin their Nations Championship campaign.
Seruvakula said the squad was selected based on experience and current performance levels.
“I have chosen a team of players that have experience and are playing some of the best rugby in their current clubs,” he said.
“This is a tough campaign, but I am confident this group has the talent, the heart, and the discipline to represent Fiji with pride.”
The squad features several established Flying Fijians including Josua Tuisova, Semi Radradra, Frank Lomani, Tevita Ikanivere, Eroni Mawi, Mesake Vocevoce, Peni Ravai, Jiuta Wainiqolo and Kalaveti Ravouvou.
The forwards will be led by hookers Tevita Ikanivere, Sam Matavesi and Zuriel Togiatama, while the props include Mawi, Atunaisa Sokobale, Ravai, Luke Tagi and Tim Hoyt.
The locking department features Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua and Tevita Ratuva, while the loose forwards are Lekima Tagitagivalu, Kitione Salawa, Elia Canakaivata, Levani Botia, Pita-Gus Sowakula and Peceli Yato.
In the backs, Fiji will rely on halfbacks Frank Lomani, Simione Kuruvoli and Sam Wye, with Caleb Muntz and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula named as first five-eighths.
The midfield includes Tuisova, Filimoni Botitu, Selestino Ravutaumada and Semi Radradra, while the outside backs are Jiuta Wainiqolo, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Vinaya Habosi, Salesi Rayasi and Vuate Karawalevu.
The Flying Fijians open their campaign against Wales at Cardiff City Stadium on July 4 before travelling to Liverpool to face England at Hill Dickinson Stadium on July 11.
The tour concludes with a clash against Scotland at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh on July 18.
The three-Test series is expected to provide a stern challenge for Fiji as they prepare to compete against some of the world’s top-ranked rugby nations.
