The Blues have announced a mostly stable lineup for their upcoming Round 13 Super Rugby Pacific showdown against the Fijian Drua in Suva, making only two changes from the starting team that recently defeated the Western Force 40-19.
In the front row, the team will feature Joshua Fusitu’a as loosehead prop, Ricky Riccitelli at hooker, and Marcel Renata at tighthead. Captain Patrick Tuipulotu will anchor the second row alongside Laghlan McWhannell. The back row includes Anton Segner at blindside flanker, Dalton Papali’i on openside, and Hoskins Sotutu at number eight.
Taufa Funaki will continue at scrumhalf, partnering with playmaker Beauden Barrett at flyhalf. The midfield will see Xavi Taele at inside centre and Rieko Ioane outside him, while AJ Lam, Cole Forbes, and Corey Evans will fill the wing and fullback positions, respectively.
The bench includes Kurt Eklund, Mason Tupaea, and Angus Ta’avao as front row replacements, alongside Josh Beehre and Adrian Choat covering locks and loose forwards. The backline reserves feature Finlay Christie, Harry Plummer, and Zarn Sullivan.
The match is set to begin at 7:05 PM at HFC Bank Stadium, marking an important test for both teams in their playoff ambitions. The Blues look to build on their positive momentum against a Drua side eager to capitalize on their recent victory over the Queensland Reds.
Additionally, the Drua’s head coach Glen Jackson has emphasized the importance of local support in this match, which can provide a critical boost for the team as they strive for consecutive victories. Both teams are entering this match with a will to win, and the atmosphere is expected to be electric, reflecting the passion and resilience characteristic of Fijian rugby.
The matchup presents a chance for the Drua to showcase their development and spirit, drawing on the energy of their home crowd. With high stakes involved, fans from both sides eagerly anticipate what promises to be an exciting encounter filled with action and determination.
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