Four debutants have been named by FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Simon Raiwalui in his match-day 23-member squad to take on Tonga in the Punjas Pacific Battle in Lautoka tomorrow.
France-based 27-year-old Lekima Tagitagivalu, Fijian Drua fly-half Caleb Muntz and speedster Selestino Ravutaumada will walk on the field for the first time in the white jumper. Fijian Drua lock, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta could also earn his first cap off the bench.
Hard-hitting centre, Waisea Nayacalevu will lead the side tomorrow after being named captain for the Punjas Pacific Battle opener. In a news conference yesterday, Raiwalui announced a strong squad to face Tonga.
The fans should expect a strong physical battle against the Ikale Tahi in the front row with experienced Peni Ravai starting at loose head prop, Mesake Doge at tight head with Sam Matavesi at hooker.
Isoa Nasilasila will partner with Temo Mayanavanua up at locks. Tagitagivalu will debut at blindside flanker and would be guided by an experienced and robust Levani Botia at openside.
Albert Tuisue will be the number 8.
The starting halves will be the Fijian Drua combination of Frank Lomani at halfback partnering with Caleb Muntz at flyhalf.
Selestino Ravutaumada gets opportunity to unleash his speed on the left wing and will partner with Jiuta Wainiqolo who starts at right wing.
Blockbusting Josua Tuisova and Waisea Nayacalevu will control the play in the midfield while Sireli Maqala completes the starting 15 at fullback.
Named on the reserves are Tevita Ikanivere, Eroni Mawi, Luke Tagi, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Viliame Mata, Peni Matawalu, Ben Volavola and Semi Radradra.
Some notable omissions to the match-day squad include Seta Tamanivalu, Iosefo Masi, Meli Derenalagi and Kalaveti Ravouvou.
The match kicks-off at 3pm at the Churchill Park in Lautoka.
