ADREA Cocagi and Mesake Vocevoce have been included in the starting lineup for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians in their upcoming Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup match against Tonga on Friday. Head coach Mick Byrne has implemented seven changes to the team that secured a 42-16 victory over Samoa two weeks ago in Suva.
Cocagi will make his first start in two years at inside centre, which results in Inia Tabuavula moving to the bench. Vuate Karawalevu will switch from fullback to right wing in light of Selestino Ravutaumada’s absence due to a shoulder injury. Isiah Armstrong-Ravula will take over at fullback for this match.
Vocevoce is set to start at lock, replacing Isoa Nasilasila, who is dealing with a minor injury. Eroni Mawi will take the position of loose-head prop, pushing Haereiti Hetet to the bench, while Elia Canakaivata will play openside flanker, and Albert Tuisue will step in at number eight. Kitione Salawa has also been named on the bench.
Assistant coach Aaron Mauger provided updates on the squad’s fitness, highlighting that aside from Selestino, who required shoulder surgery in Australia, the rest of the team is fit. He expressed anticipation for Vocevoce’s start at lock, praising him as an outstanding young player. Mauger also commended Cocagi’s impressive performances in France and expressed excitement to see him in the number 12 jersey.
Mauger is looking forward to young Ravula’s performance at fullback, noting his capability to manage territory effectively. Fiji is set to compete against Tonga at 3 PM in Nuku’alofa.