Stade Francais star Peniasi Dakuwaqa is set to make his debut for the Flying Fijians as they face Georgia at the Adjarabet Arena this Saturday. Known for his exceptional speed, Dakuwaqa has scored six tries in the French Top 14 competition this season and will be joining Toulon’s Jiuta Wainiqolo on the wings.
In addition to Dakuwaqa, four other players will be making their debuts, including Fijian Drua’s hardworking Kitione Salawa and Racing 92’s Inia Tabuavou, who will be positioned at inside center in the starting 15. Elia Canakaivata and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, both from Fijian Drua, are expected to come off the bench.
The match squad features a strong presence from the Fijian Drua, with 12 players in the lineup. Waisea Nayacalevu continues as captain, and Vilimoni Botitu will serve in the playmaker role.
Head coach Mick Bryne expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, highlighted by the integration of Europe-based players during a full week of training. “The arrival of the Europe-based players gave us a full week preparation, so most definitely; we got a lot more work done and more clarity into the sort of way we want to play,” Bryne remarked.
On Thursday, the Fijian players took part in a junior rugby festival in Batumi, engaging with young local players.
The Flying Fijians last played Georgia during last year’s Rugby World Cup in Bordeaux, winning 17-12. Historically, Fiji has dominated the encounters between the two teams, winning four out of six matches, with one win for Georgia and one draw.
Saturday’s match starts at 4 am (Fiji time) and will be broadcast live on Sky Pacific.
Game Day team list:
1. Eroni Mawi, 2. Tevita Ikanivere, 3. Mesake Doge, 4. Isoa Nasilasila, 5. Temo Mayanavanua, 6. Lekima Tagitagivalu, 7. Kitione Salawa, 8. Viliame Mata, 9. Frank Lomani, 10. Vilimoni Botitu, 11. Peniasi Dakuwaqa, 12. Inia Tabuavou, 13. Waisea Nayacalevu (C), 14. Jiuta Wainiqolo, 15. Ilaisa Droasese
Impact:
16. Zuriel Togiatama, 17. Haereiti Hetet, 18. Peni Ravai, 19. Albert Tuisue, 20. Ratu Meli Derenalagi, 21. Elia Canakaivata, 22. Simione Kuruvoli, 23. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula.