The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua are gearing up for a critical encounter against the Hurricanes in Round 2 of the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific, taking place at McLean Park in Napier, New Zealand. Following a narrow 36-32 loss to the ACT Brumbies, head coach Glen Jackson has made a significant overhaul to the team, introducing 15 changes aimed at rejuvenating their campaign.
Making his Super Rugby Pacific debut is Inia Tabuavou, who will start at inside centre, while veteran Peni Ravai will serve as loosehead prop cover from the bench. These strategic changes are designed to strengthen the lineup and address previous deficiencies, particularly in breakdown management and discipline, as highlighted by Jackson in the lead-up to the match.
In the forward pack, Emosi Tuqiri will make his first appearance of the season at loosehead prop alongside veteran Mesake Doge. The locks will include the familiar duo of Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila. The back row is rounded out by Meli Derenalagi, who will feature at blindside flanker, and former Fiji U20 captain Motikiai Murray starting at openside flanker, with Elia Canakaivata positioned at number 8.
The backline will be led by captain Frank Lomani at halfback, with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula starting at fly-half. After recovering from injury, Taniela Rakuro returns to the left wing, while Junior Ratuva occupies the right wing. The versatile Tuidraki Samusamuvodre will support Tabuavou in the midfield, and Ilaisa Droasese completes the starting XV at fullback.
Jackson has also assembled a balanced bench to ensure impactful substitutions late in the contest, featuring names such as Peni Ravai and Mesulame Dolokoto. This new mix of experienced players and first-time starters is seen as crucial not only for securing a win but also for building momentum as the Drua strive to reshape their narrative, particularly concerning away games.
Fans are excited about the prospect of witnessing a revitalized performance, with key milestones on the horizon, such as Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, who is close to becoming the Drua’s all-time top points scorer. Despite missing some key players like Vilive Miramira due to injury, there is a palpable sense of optimism among supporters, fueled by the potential shown by the team’s rookies and the determination of the squad to respond positively to their earlier setback.
The match is slated to kick off at 3:35 PM local time, and anticipation runs high as both teams look to secure their first victory of the season. The Drua’s focus on discipline and tactical improvements suggests a strong effort to turn their fortunes around, making this encounter a highly anticipated clash within the Super Rugby Pacific. As the fans rally behind the Drua, hope lingers that this match could be a turning point in their season, allowing them to regain confidence and push forward in the tournament.
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