Fiji’s Flying Fijian captain, Tevita Ikanivere, is cautious ahead of their match against hosts Tonga in the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup, scheduled for tomorrow in Nukua’lofa. Ikanivere has been appointed to lead a 23-member squad for the revamped tournament as they prepare to face the vocal home crowd.
“Playing Tonga on their home ground is something we are expecting, and we see this match as a key preparation,” Ikanivere stated before the team departed on Tuesday. He added that the team has been focusing on correcting mistakes made in their previous encounter against Samoa last month.
Fiji secured a convincing 42-16 victory over Samoa in their opening match of the Pacific Nations Cup, while Samoa had previously triumphed over Tonga with a score of 42-17 last weekend. Ikanivere anticipates a similarly physical contest against Tonga. “We need to ensure consistency in our physicality and hard work right from the start and minimize penalties,” he emphasized.
Fiji and Tonga have a long-standing rivalry, having first contested a Test match in 1924. This weekend’s fixture will mark the 95th Test match between the two nations in the past century.
In team news, Adrea Cocagi returns as the inside centre for the Flying Fijians, with Vuate Karawalevu, a recent recruit from the Fijian Drua, teaming up with Epeli Momo on the wings and Isaiah Ravula starting as fullback. Albert Tuisue is set to take the Number 8 position, pushing Kitione Salawa to the bench, while Tuisue will join Ratu Meli Derenalagi and Elia Canakaivata in the back row.
The front row will consist of Eroni Mawi, Ikanivere, and Samuela Tawake, while Mesake Vocevoce and Temo Mayanavanua will make up the second row. Frank Lomani will continue as scrum-half, pairing with fly-half Caleb Muntz, and Iosefo Masi will line up as outside centre.
The match will kick off at 3 PM.