Four players will make their debut for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians when they take on Ikale Tahi Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup in Suva tomorrow.
Coach Mick Byrne emphasised that these four Fijian Drua representatives have earned their call-up through their impressive performances, particularly during the Super Rugby season.
These players are Etonia Waqa, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Motikiai Murray, and Taniela Rakuro.
Kadavu lad Waqa and Samusamuvodre are in the starting 15 while Murray and Rakuro are set to come off the bench.
Byrne says he sees this as a fantastic opportunity to blend experienced players with promising young talents as they look ahead to future competitions.
“I think it’s a great opportunity, we have a good mix of experienced players that have performed well in July, and a couple of new young players that are coming in; as we build towards 2027, we certainly not taking our eye of this game on Saturday,” said Byrne.
“It is an opportunity to continue to build our depth with our best players that we have.
“As I said earlier in the week, we have trained really well, they have earned their spot, and we are really looking forward for the challenge that presents itself on Saturday.”
Eroni Mawi will start at loosehead prop, while Tevita Ikanivere will lead the side from the hooker position, and Mesake Doge will anchor the scrum at tighthead prop.
Isoa Nasilasila and Temo Mayanavanua will form the lock pairing, with Waqa and Elia Canakaivata on the flanks and Viliame Mata at number eight.
In the backline, Philip Baselala will start at scrum-half alongside Caleb Muntz at fly-half. Ponipate Loganimasi and Kalaveti Ravouvou will occupy the wing positions, with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula holding down the fullback spot.
Seta Tamanivalu and Samusamuvodre will partner up in the centres.
On the bench, Zuriel Togiatama, Haereiti Hetet, Samu Tawake, Mesake Vocevoce, and Sam Wye are ready to provide support and make an impact when called upon.
Tonga comes into this match, riding on the high of their victory over Samoa in the first round of the tournament.
Byrne said they were aware of Tonga’s physicality and speed at the ruck.
No doubt, they will be looking to maintain their winning streak and stun the holders of the PNC trophy at their backyard.
Fiji will be hungry for its first win and should be fuelled by their vocal home crowd.
The eagerly awaited match is set to kick off at 3.30pm at the HFC Bank Stadium.
On the same day, Japan will host Canada at Yurtec Stadium, Sendai in Pool B.
The Flying Fijians will face Samoa in its next match on September 6 in New Zealand.