Fiji Water Flying Fijian captain Tevita Ikanivere is preparing for a challenging match against hosts Tonga in the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup set to take place in Nukua’lofa tomorrow. The Flying Fijians traveled to the Friendly Islands, with Ikanivere confirmed as the leader of the 23-man squad for this revamped competition.
Ikanivere expressed the significance of playing Tonga on their home ground, emphasizing the expected support from their passionate crowd. “This match is an important build-up for us,” he stated prior to their departure on Tuesday. He noted the team’s focus on correcting mistakes from their previous match against Samoa last month.
In their opening PNC match, Fiji triumphed over Samoa with a score of 42-16, while Samoa defeated Tonga 42-17 in Apia, Samoa last weekend. Ikanivere anticipates a similarly intense match against Tonga, stressing the importance of consistent physicality and minimizing penalties to maintain field position.
Fiji and Tonga, longstanding rivals in rugby, have a history that dates back to their first Test match in 1924. This upcoming match will mark the 95th Test encounter between the two nations in nearly a century.
In terms of the squad, Adrea Cocagi returns as inside centre, with new Fijian Drua recruit Vuate Karawalevu joining Epeli Momo on the wings, and Isaiah Ravula starting at fullback. Albert Tuisue takes the Number 8 position, moving Kitione Salawa to the bench. Tuisue, alongside Ratu Meli Derenalagi and Elia Canakaivata, will form the back row.
The front row sees Eroni Mawi, Ikanivere, and Samuela Tawake taking the positions, while Mesake Vocevoce and Temo Mayanavanua will support the second row. Frank Lomani will continue as scrum-half in partnership with fly-half Caleb Muntz, with Iosefo Masi positioned as outside centre.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 3pm.