Stade Francais star Peniasi Dakuwaqa is set to make his debut for the Flying Fijians in their upcoming match against Georgia at the Adjarabet Arena on Saturday. Known as “the Flash” for his exceptional speed, Dakuwaqa has scored six tries in the French Top 14 competition this season. He will be joined on the wings by Toulon’s Jiuta Wainiqolo.
The squad also features debutants Kitione Salawa from Fijian Drua, and Inia Tabuavou from Racing 92 at inside center. Additionally, Fijian Drua players Elia Canakaivata and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula are expected to come off the bench.
The match-day 23 squad is dominated by a strong presence from Fijian Drua, with 12 players included. Waisea Nayacalevu will continue as team captain, while Vilimoni Botitu takes on the playmaker role.
Head coach Mick Bryne expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, stating that the arrival of Europe-based players allowed for a productive week of training. “The arrival of the Europe-based players gave us a full week of preparation. We were able to accomplish a lot and gain more clarity on our playing strategy,” Bryne said.
The Fijian players recently engaged with the local community by attending a junior rugby festival in Batumi, where they interacted with young aspiring players.
In their last encounter with Georgia at the Rugby World Cup in Bordeaux, 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 one, and one match ending in a draw.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 4 a.m. 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 substitutes:
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