Stade Francais star Peniasi Dakuwaqa is among five debutants named in the Flying Fijians squad set to face Georgia at Adjarabet Arena this Saturday.
Known as “The Flash” for his remarkable speed, Dakuwaqa has scored six tries in the French Top 14 competition this season. He will join forces with Toulon’s speedster Jiuta Wainiqolo on the wings.
The other new faces include Fijian Drua’s Kitione Salawa and Inia Tabuavou (Racing 92) who will start at inside center. Fijian Drua duo Elia Canakaivata and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula are expected to come off the bench.
The match 23 squad is dominated by Fijian Drua players, with 12 of them making the list.
Waisea Nayacalevu continues as captain, while Vilimoni Botitu takes on the role of playmaker.
Head coach Mick Bryne expressed confidence in the team’s preparation earlier this week. “The arrival of the Europe-based players gave us a full week of preparation, allowing us to achieve greater clarity on our game plan,” Bryne said.
Yesterday, the Fijian players participated in a junior rugby festival in Batumi, engaging with young local players.
The Flying Fijians’ most recent encounter with Georgia was during last year’s Rugby World Cup in Stade de Bordeaux, where Fiji emerged victorious with a 17-12 win. Historically, the two teams have faced each other six times, with Fiji winning four matches, Georgia winning once, and one draw.
Saturday’s match will kick off at 4am (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.