Stade Francais star Peniasi Dakuwaqa is one of five debutants in the Flying Fijians squad set to face Georgia at the Adjarabet Arena on Saturday.
Dakuwaqa, known as the Flash for his exceptional speed, has scored six tries in the French Top 14 competition this season. He will team up with Toulon’s speedy Jiuta Wainiqolo on the wings.
The other debutants include Fijian Drua’s hardworking Kitione Salawa and Racing 92’s Inia Tabuavou, who will play at inside center. Elia Canakaivata and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, both from Fijian Drua, are also expected to make appearances from the bench.
The match 23 squad features a significant presence from Fijian Drua, with 12 players included.
Waisea Nayacalevu continues as captain, while Vilimoni Botitu takes on the playmaker role.
Head coach Mick Bryne expressed confidence earlier this week, stating that the one-week training period was sufficient to prepare the team for Georgia. “The arrival of the Europe-based players gave us a full week of preparation, so we definitely got a lot more work done and gained more clarity on how we want to play,” said Bryne.
The Fijian players participated in a junior rugby festival in Batumi yesterday, engaging with local budding rugby players.
In their last encounter, Fiji triumphed over Georgia 17-12 in last year’s Rugby World Cup in Stade de Bordeaux. Historically, Fiji has won four out of their six meetings with Georgia, who have won once, while one match ended in a draw.
Saturday’s match kicks 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
Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj