Fijian midfielder Inia Tabuavou is set to make his debut for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua as they prepare to take on the Wellington Hurricanes in Napier this Saturday. He will be positioned at inside centre during the Shop and Save Super Rugby Pacific match, while veteran prop Peni Ravai will also make his Drua debut coming off the bench.
The team features a fresh front row comprising Emosi Tuqiri, Zuriel Togiatama, and Mesake Doge. In the engine room, Isoa Nasilasila will partner with Mesake Vocevoce, while Meli Derenalagi, Motikai Murray, and Elia Canakaivata will ensure a strong back row presence.
Frank Lomani will lead the side in the halves alongside Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, while Tuidraki Samusamuvodre joins Tabuavou in the centre. The wings will be occupied by Taniela Rakuro and Junior Ratuva, with Ilaisa Droasese returning to fullback.
On the bench, the Drua have named Mesulame Dolokoto, Peni Ravai, Meli Tuni, Leone Rotuisolia, Kitione Salawa, Peni Matawalu, Caleb Muntz, and Iosefo Masi.
This match comes after a tough loss against the ACT Brumbies in which the Drua made several strategic changes to strengthen their lineup. Head coach Glen Jackson has emphasized the need for discipline and effective management during play, highlighting the team’s resolve to enhance their performance moving forward.
As anticipation builds for this weekend’s match, fans remain hopeful that the combination of fresh talent and experienced players will lead to a positive outcome for the Drua, reversing their fortunes and igniting momentum for the rest of the season.
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:35 PM on Saturday.
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