Stade Francais star Peniasi Dakuwaqa is among five debutants set to feature for the Flying Fijians in their upcoming match against Georgia at the Adjarabet Arena on Saturday.
Known for his lightning speed and dubbed “the Flash,” Dakuwaqa has scored six tries in the French Top 14 competition this season. He will join Toulon’s speedy Jiuta Wainiqolo on the wings.
The other four debutants are Fijian Drua’s hard-working Kitione Salawa and Racing 92’s Inia Tabuavou, who will start at inside center. Fijian Drua players Elia Canakaivata and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula are expected to come off the bench.
Fijian Drua players dominate the matchday squad, with 12 members included. Waisea Nayacalevu continues as captain, while Vilimoni Botitu takes the playmaker role.
Head coach Mick Bryne mentioned earlier in the week that a one-week training period was sufficient for the team’s preparations to face Georgia. “The arrival of the Europe-based players gave us a full week of preparation, allowing us to accomplish more and gain better clarity on our playing style,” Bryne said.
Yesterday, the Fijian players attended the junior rugby festival in Batumi, where they met young local aspiring players.
The Flying Fijians last encountered Georgia in the Rugby World Cup held in Bordeaux last year, where they secured a 17-12 victory. Historically, Fiji has won four out of six encounters with Georgia, drawing once and losing once.
The match will kick off at 4 am Fiji time and will be broadcast live on Sky Pacific.
Game Day Team List:
1. Eroni Mawi
2. Tevita Ikanivere
3. Mesake Doge
4. Isoa Nasilasila
5. Temo Mayanavanua
6. Lekima Tagitagivalu
7. Kitione Salawa
8. Viliame Mata
9. Frank Lomani
10. Vilimoni Botitu
11. Peniasi Dakuwaqa
12. Inia Tabuavou
13. Waisea Nayacalevu (C)
14. Jiuta Wainiqolo
15. Ilaisa Droasese
Impact:
16. Zuriel Togiatama
17. Haereiti Hetet
18. Peni Ravai
19. Albert Tuisue
20. Ratu Meli Derenalagi
21. Elia Canakaivata
22. Simione Kuruvoli
23. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula
Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj