Former Suva Grammar School student and Swire Shipping Fijian Drua player Isikeli Rabitu will make his first start of the season at flyhalf in tomorrow night’s crucial Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Hurricanes at HFC Stadium.
Rabitu, who previously played at fullback, will be stepping into the pivotal flyhalf position for the third time in his Super Rugby career.
Joining Rabitu in the starting lineup, Kadavu native Simi Kuruvoli will take on the halfback role, while Kitione Salawa returns from injury to start as the openside flanker.
Head coach Mick Byrne expressed confidence in Rabitu’s abilities.
“Rabitu has been training well with Kemu who does the job for us.”
Byrne also highlighted the significance of playing in front of a home crowd.
“We look forward to the crowd, this is our first game in Suva so it’s exciting time for us,” Byrne said.
In a bid to secure victory against the Hurricanes, Byrne has made several changes to the matchday 23. Notably, Isoa Nasilasila, who has recovered from injury, returns to the starting lineup, adding depth to the team’s forward pack.
“Nasilasila has been training well and is looking good,” Byrne said.
The starting XV features a formidable front row, with Haereiti Hetet retaining his position at loosehead prop, alongside Tevita Ikanivere as hooker and captain, and veteran prop Mesake Doge anchoring the scrum at tighthead. Nasilasila rejoins the team after a five-game absence due to an ankle injury, partnering with Leone Rotuisolia. Vilive Miramira and Kitione Salawa bring their experience to the flanks, while Elia Canakaivata starts at number 8.
In the backline, Kuruvoli starts at halfback alongside Rabitu. Epeli Momo starts on the left wing with Selestino Ravutaumada on the right. Sharpshooter Kemu Valetini will start at inside centre, with Iosefo Masi outside. Ilaisa Droasese completes the starting 15 at fullback.
On the bench, Byrne has named Zuriel Togiatama, Livai Natave and Samu Tawake as loosehead and tighthead props respectively. An impactful middle and backrow pair of Mesake Vocevoce and Meli Derenalagi are expected to inject power late in the game. The replacement backline sees Peni Matawalu as back-up halfback, with young Michael Naitokani covering the centres. Junior Ratuva completes the matchday 23.
