ADREA Cocagi and Mesake Vocevoce have secured spots in the starting lineup for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians as they prepare to face Tonga in the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup on Friday.
Head coach Mick Byrne has made seven adjustments to the team that previously defeated Samoa 42-16 two weeks ago in Suva. Cocagi will make his first start in two years at inside centre, pushing Inia Tabuavula to the bench. Vuate Karawalevu will transition from fullback to right wing due to Selestino Ravutaumada’s unavailability from a shoulder injury, while Isiah Armstrong-Ravula will take over at fullback.
Vocevoce will also start at lock, stepping in for Isoa Nasilasila, who is dealing with a minor injury. Eroni Mawi will start as loose-head prop, with Haereiti Hetet moving to the bench. Elia Canakaivata will shift to openside flanker, and Albert Tuisue will come on at number eight. Kitione Salawa has been added to the bench.
Assistant coach Aaron Mauger noted the team’s overall fitness, apart from Ravutaumada, who recently underwent shoulder surgery in Australia. He expressed confidence that Nasilasila will be ready by next week. Mauger praised Vocevoce as an “outstanding young player” and Cocagi for his extensive rugby experience in France, expressing enthusiasm for seeing Cocagi in the number 12 jersey this week.
Mauger is also eager to watch young Ravula at fullback, highlighting his talent for managing territory effectively. Fiji’s match against Tonga is scheduled for 3 PM in Nuku’alofa.