Tevita Ikanivere, captain of the Flying Fijians, is preparing for a challenging match against Tonga in the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup set to take place in Nukua’lofa tomorrow. The team has arrived in Tonga, where Ikanivere has been confirmed as the leader of the 23-player squad for this significant matchup.
“Playing Tonga on their home ground with the support of their passionate fans is something we are anticipating. We view this game as a stepping stone,” Ikanivere remarked before their departure on Tuesday. He emphasized the importance of rectifying their errors from the previous match against Samoa last month.
Fiji triumphed over Samoa with a score of 42-16 in their opening PNC match at the HFC Bank Stadium, while Samoa had a strong performance against Tonga, winning 42-17 in Apia, Samoa, last weekend.
Ikanivere expects a similarly intense encounter against Tonga. “We anticipate a physical battle just like the one we had with Samoa. Our focus is on maintaining consistency and hard work from the beginning to secure a victory and avoiding penalties that could advance the opposing team down the field.”
Fiji and Tonga, longstanding rivals, first faced each other in Test rugby in 1924, and this weekend’s match will mark their 95th meeting in a century of competition.
In the Flying Fijians lineup, Adrea Cocagi returns as inside center, with Vuate Karawalevu teaming up with Epeli Momo on the wings. Isaiah Ravula will be positioned at fullback. Albert Tuisue is set to play at Number 8, with Kitione Salawa moving to the bench. The back row will include Tuisue, Ratu Meli Derenalagi, and Elia Canakaivata.
The front row will feature Eroni Mawi, Ikanivere, and Samuela Tawake, while Mesake Vocevoce and Temo Mayanavanua will anchor the second row. Frank Lomani will serve as scrum-half alongside fly-half Caleb Muntz, with Iosefo Masi in the outside center position.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 3 PM.