mens
nations-championship
The Jake White era is underway in Fiji, and for the coach’s first Test of the international window, he made some big calls with the talent that became available to him.
The host Top 14 the stars returned to the starting lineup, with only four starters moving on from the 34-28 win Japan who opened White’s account as head coach: Tevit Ikanivera, Mesaka Vocevoce, Isoa Nasilasila and Kitione Salawa.
Eroni Mawi and Luke Tagi join their captain Ikanivere in the front row, while Pita-Gus Sowakula and former England representative Nathan Hughes starts with Salawe in the back row. The match will be the 35-year-old Hughes’ first for the country of his birth.
Simione Kuruvoli will start at full-back and youngster Isikeli Rabitu has been backed for his first start at 10 Fiji jersey. Vinaya Habosi will feature sparingly in midfield, with Iosefo Masi in midfield. The electric outside back trio of Jiuta Wainiqolo, Celestino Ravutaumada and Salesi Rayasi complete the starting XV.
There is plenty of experience on the bench, including Penny Ravai and Ben Volavola. There is no place for Josua Tuisova or Caleb Muntz, and the selections of Hughes, Rabitu and Habosi also hint at the selection plans of the new coach.
With nine of the Whites’ starting XV plying their trade in France, the Parc Olympique clash has a heavy Top 14 flavor as it concludes a busy Saturday night at the Nations Championship.
Team Fiji is playing against France
- Eroni Mawi
- Tevita Ikanivere (C)
- Luke Tag
- Mesake Vocevoce
- Isoa Nasilasila
- Pita-Gus Sowakula
- Kitione Salawa
- Nathan Hughes
- Simione Kuruvoli
- Rabita srp
- Call yourself Wainiqolo
- Vinaya Habosi
- Joseph Massey
- Celestino Ravutaumada
- Salesi Rayas
Reserves
16. Zuriel Togiatama
17. Ben Ravai
18. Inoke Ravuiwasa
19. Peceli Yato
20. Elia Canakaivata
21. Frank Roman
22. Ben Volavola
23. Master of Cereals