mens
international
HSBC SVNS Series star Terio Tamani will make his Flying Fijians competitive debut this weekend and Rugby World Cup coach Jake White has unveiled a 23-man squad to play Japan at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo.
Tamani made his debut at Test level during the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup, which saw Fiji they face Japan in another PNC final. But the Flying Fijian’s reign as champions came to an end as the Brave Blossoms secured a tight victory.
Fiji will return to the same venue this weekend for the Japan Centennial Test, which will also be White’s first match in charge of the national team. White was unveiled earlier this month as the team’s new boss, taking over from interim coach Senirusi Seruvakaula.
Tamani was selected in the starting XV at half-time and was set to link up with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula at half-time. Ben Volavola has not played for Fiji in around three years but could get his chance this weekend after being named on the bench.
Joji Nasova and Nacani Boginsoko are the first-choice full-backs, while Isaac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens is the first-choice full-back. Isikeli Rabitu and Tuidraki Samusamuvodre are the centers, while Bijeli left with a 5-3 split in substitutions.
In attack, Fiji captain Tevita Ikanivere will pack forward, along with loose prop Penny Ravai and tight prop Inoka Ravuiwasa. Mesake Vočevoca and Isoa Nasilasila form the starting pair in the second row.
Kitione Salawa scored just 21 seconds into the PNC semi-final win over Canada, and the loose forward was chosen in the open for this Test. Aporosa Vuniyayawa will pack on the other side, with Motikiai Murray at No.8.
The Flying Fijians team will take on the Brave Blossoms
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Issac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
Substitutions