mens
pacific-nations-cup
Flying Fijians assistant coach Seremaia Bai shared a brief update from camp ahead of the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2026, as the defending champions continue their preparations for the tournament opener against Canada.
Fiji have arrived Japan ahead of PNC, which will see four teams compete over the next two weekends. Playing the Flying Fijians Canada in Osaka on Saturday as part of a doubleheader with the Brave Blossoms vs USA Eagles.
Canada is looking to bounce back from last weekend’s 45-point loss to Japan in front of 18,000 fans in Niigata. The Brave Blossoms were defeated in the 2025 PNC Finals and will now look to go one better, hosting the event for the second time in three years.
The Flying Fijians are looking for a comeback win to start their title defense, having cruised through the inaugural season Nations Championship window in July with a score of 0-3. Interim coach Senirusi Seruvakula has named a strong squad, which includes the star of the HSBC SVNS Series.
Terio Tamani has been named in the SVNS Men’s Dream Team of the Year in partnership with HSBC, following an outstanding campaign with Fiji. The playmaker is one of seven potential debutants in the group of 31 players, which also includes experienced international players.
“The preparation was good, it was good preparation. Good spirit in the team,” Bai said in a video shared by Fiji Rugby.
“It was great to be in Japan. The weather and the wonderful culture and people – we always enjoy Japan and look forward to this weekend. The association hosted us wonderfully. We are enjoying Japan.”
“We thank everyone for making us feel at home.”
Interim Seruvakula boss selected Elia Canakaivata, Kitione Salawa, Peni Ravai and Mesak Vocevoca in a star-studded forward contingent. At the backs, Fiji will once again turn to some electrifying playmakers, inside backs and back threes.
Caleb Muntz and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula will battle it out for the No.10 jersey, as will Cam Valletini, who was picked after missing out in July. Valletini offers versatility across the back line, as fans have seen Super Rugby Pacific with Fijian Dru.
Frank Lomani headlines a group of scrum-halves, named alongside the former Fiji U20 standout Philip Baselala and recently Drua signed with Sam Wye. Recent Flying Fijians debutant Virimi Vakatawa and Olympic silver medalist Joji Nasova are among the other players to watch.
Fiji play Canada at Osaka’s Hanazono Rugby Stadium on Saturday, with the winner advancing to the PNC final in Tokyo. Both the final and the third-place play-off will take place next weekend at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium.
Fiji National Team for the Pacific Nations Cup 2026
Strikers: Levi Natave, Ben Ravai, Mel Tuni, David Ikanivere, Kavaia Tagivetau, Benaiah Cakobau, Mesake Doge, Samu Tawake, Willesa Nairau, Enoch Ravuiwasa, Tuwai*, Elijah the Great.
back: Frank Lomani, Sam Wye, Philip Baselala, Terio Tamani*, Caleb Muntz, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Kemu Valetini, Joji Nasova, Maleli Nauvasi*, Manasa Mataele, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Virimi Vakataitawa, Isaac-K Raumalikes.
*New cap
