Vodafone Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata has announced the lineup for the upcoming match against the Cook Islands in the second round of the Pacific Bowl this Saturday.
James Valevatu will start as hooker, taking the place of Penioni Tagituimua, who has been moved to the bench. Veteran hooker Joe Lovodua is likely to be on standby, ready to bolster the forward pack if required.
Young forward Kylan Mafoa is set to make his eagerly awaited debut, joining the interchange bench alongside several key impact players.
The starting backline remains unchanged, as Coach Kativerata continues to trust his regulars. Sunia Turuva, Maika Sivo, and Michael Jennings will lead the offensive efforts, followed by Waqa Blake, Semi Valemei, Kevin Naiqama, and Kurt Donoghoe, forming a dynamic backline that aims to challenge the opposition.
Captain Tui Kamikamica will head the forward line, paired with powerhouse Viliame Kikau, ensuring a tough contest for the Cook Islands.
The match is scheduled to start at 8:10 PM at the HFC Bank Stadium. Prior to this game, the Fiji Bulikula will compete against the Cook Islands at 6 PM in a World qualifying match.