Flying Fijians bring debutants into a Drua-led mix for Pacific Nations Cup opener
The Fiji Water Flying Fijians have named a Drua-dominated squad for the Pacific Nations Cup, placing two players set to make their international bows into the starting lineup against Tonga in Suva. Winger Etonia Waqa and outside-centre Samusamuvodre are named to start, with four newcomers among the reserves including Motikiai Murray and Taniela Rakuro. Samusamuvodre will wear the number 13 shirt as he steps onto the international stage alongside a core of seasoned teammates.
Samusamuvodre’s rise has been a familiar one for Fiji fans. A Skipper Cup product who has progressed through the national Under-20s, Fijian Warriors and Latui, he has also spent time with the Drua in Super Rugby’s environment and recently found mentorship from former All Black Seta Tamanivalu since joining camp. “I’ve come to join some of the experienced players I used to watch on TV back in high school,” Samusamuvodre said, acknowledging the boot-to-ball transition from local rugby to international duty.
The selection under head coach Mick Byrne emphasizes depth and pathways from the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, with a sizable contingent of Drua players in the team. The match against Tonga at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva is the opening test of the tournament, slated for a 3pm local kickoff, and Fiji will be eager to defend their Pacific Nations Cup crown with a blend of front-foot aggression and speed across the backline.
In addition to Samusamuvodre, Etonia Waqa’s inclusion adds another pace option to the back three, while the reserve group features Murray and Rakuro ready to offer impact off the bench. The squad’s Drua-heavy core — complemented by tested overseas experience — is designed to provide cohesion in set pieces, quick ball, and intelligent game management as Fiji navigate a challenging schedule.
What to watch
– Debutants staking a claim: Samusamuvodre’s midfield pace and Waqa’s edge speed will be under the microscope as they integrate into a trusted setup.
– The Drua pipeline: The mix of Drua combinations up front and in the backs should give Fiji reliable connections in scrum, lineout, and phase play from early on.
– Leadership and balance: The presence of experienced leaders alongside fresh faces should help manage the tempo against Tonga’s direct style.
– Bench impact: Murray and Rakuro provide options to lift the tempo and maintain momentum when the match wears on.
Logical outlook
Facing Tonga first provides a meaningful test for Fiji’s set-piece solidity and defensive discipline. If the front row and lineout function cleanly, Fiji’s dual playmaking options in the backline can create opportunities against a hard-running opposition. The combination of seasoned campaigners and ambitious newcomers is a formula that often generates quick momentum in the early stages of the tournament, especially with strong home support in Suva.
Positive note
Rigging in debutants within a solid, Drua-led framework signals depth and a forward-looking approach to the World Cup cycle. With a well-balanced roster and home crowd behind them, Fiji have a practical path to building early tournament momentum.
Summary
Fiji have named a 33-man squad, led by Semi Radradra and built around the Fijian Drua, for the Pacific Nations Cup. The lineup features first caps for Samusamuvodre and Waqa, with Murray and Rakuro among the bench options as Fiji prepare to host Tonga on August 30 at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Editor’s notes
– Consider adding short blurbs for the debutants (age, position, recent form) to help readers connect with the new players.
– Include the Pacific Nations Cup schedule and match dates for easy reference.
– Add a quote box with Byrne’s key lines to give the piece a human voice.
– Use visuals from home training blocks and portraits of the debutants to emphasize mentorship and fresh energy.
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