Fijiana 7s forward Verenaisi Ditavutu is set to make her debut for the Vodafone Fijiana XVs when they face the United States tomorrow morning at 6 AM. She will take on the role of centre, as named by head coach Ioan Cunningham, while fellow sevens teammate Kelerayani Luvu is expected to make her debut off the bench.
Joining Ditavutu is 25-year-old Ilisapeci Delaiwau, who will partner Alowesi Nakoci at the wing. The team, currently ranked 15th in the world, will be challenged by 9th-ranked USA Eagles, known for their physicality and experienced roster including several World Cup veterans.
Cunningham emphasized the importance of this match as a pivotal step in their Rugby World Cup preparation, stating, “The players are very excited by the opportunity to play in the USA at such a world-class venue and in front of a big crowd. It’s an occasion that inspires pride and purpose.” He added that the focus would be on playing to their strengths—speed, width, and instinct—while shifting the ball away from contact to maintain an edge during play.
The match will feature a mix of established players and newcomers from the sevens squad, reflecting the Fijiana’s strategic approach to fostering teamwork and resilience in the lead-up to the World Cup. Following their successful campaign in the Oceania Championship, the players are hopeful, eager to build on their recent momentum.
As the Fijiana XVs gear up for this exciting encounter, they aim not only to perform well but also to enhance their skills and showcase the talent of Fijian rugby on a global stage. This match serves as more than just another fixture; it is a crucial opportunity for development that can inspire future generations of athletes.
By blending experience with new talent, the Fijiana XVs are set for a promising campaign, and fans are excited to see how they perform in this highly anticipated match against the USA.
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