The Vodafone Fijian XV is set to face off against Spain in their final match of the WXV 3 in Dubai, and they will be motivated by the knowledge that it is their last game under head coach Mosese Rauluni. Rauluni announced his resignation on Tuesday following a disappointing 45-17 defeat to Samoa.
This year, Rauluni guided the Fijian Drua to their third consecutive Super W Grand Final and led the Fijiana XV to victory in the Oceania Championship, securing qualification for the Rugby World Cup next year. He also celebrated a milestone with the team by coaching them to their first win against Japan. Under his leadership, the program has undergone a significant transition, including centralization in Nadi, fostering growth among players and staff, and encouraging the emergence of talents like Atelaite Buna, Salanieta Kinita, and Repeka Tove.
The Fiji Rugby Union has indicated that this will be Rauluni’s final match before he relocates to Brisbane, Australia, to be with his family. FRU CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu stated that they will begin the search for a replacement for Rauluni as the head coach of both the Fijiana XV and the Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua teams. Nayacalevu wished Rauluni well in his future endeavors and expressed hope that he finds happiness with his family in Australia.
The match between Fiji and Spain is scheduled to kick off at 4:30 AM and will be broadcast live on Sky Pacific.
Fijiana XV line-up:
1. Salanieta Nabuli
2. Keleni Marawa
3. Tiana Robanakadavu
4. Aviame Veidreyaki
5. Alfreda Fisher
6. Salaseini Ralumu
7. Ema Adivitaloga
8. Karalaini Naisewa (captain)
9. Evivi Senikaravi
10. Salanieta Kinita
11. Repeka Tove
12. Jennifer Ravutia
13. Adita Milinia
14. Kolora Lomani
15. Luisa Tisolo
Reserves:
16. Loraini Senivutu
17. Penina Turova
18. Anasimeci Korovata
19. Asinate Serevi
20. Mereoni Nakesa
21. Sulita Waisega
22. Setaita Railumu
23. Ivamere Nabura.