Stade Francais star Peniasi Dakuwaqa is among the five debutants in the Flying Fijians squad set to face Georgia at the Adjarabet Arena on Saturday.
Dakuwaqa, known for his electrifying speed and dubbed “the Flash” for his six tries in the French Top 14 this season, will join Toulon speedster Jiuta Wainiqolo on the wings.
The other debutants include Fijian Drua’s Kitione Salawa and Racing 92’s Inia Tabuavou, who will start at inside center. Fijian Drua players Elia Canakaivata and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula are expected to contribute from the bench.
Dominating the matchday squad, the Fijian Drua contribute 12 players to the 23-man squad. Waisea Nayacalevu will continue as captain, with Vilimoni Botitu taking on the playmaker role.
Head coach Mick Byrne expressed confidence earlier this week, stating that their one-week training was sufficient for their preparation against Georgia. “The arrival of the Europe-based players gave us a full week of preparation, allowing us to achieve greater clarity in our playing strategy,” Byrne said.
On Thursday, the Fijian players participated in a junior rugby festival in Batumi, engaging with young aspiring local players.
The Flying Fijians last faced Georgia during last year’s Rugby World Cup at Stade de Bordeaux, where Fiji secured a 17-12 victory. Historically, Fiji has won four of the six encounters between the teams, with Georgia winning once and one match ending in a draw.
Saturday’s match is scheduled to kick off at 4 am (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 Players:
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.