The recent claims made by senior players Waisea Nayacalevu, Levani Botia, and Semi Radradra against the Fiji Rugby Union have not affected the selection process of FIJI Water Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne for the upcoming test matches in November.
Nayacalevu and Tevita Ikanivere, the hooker from Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, have been designated as co-captains for the upcoming test fixtures.
Byrne has announced a 39-member squad in preparation for the team’s test match against Scotland next month, which includes four debutants: Outside Centre Waqa Nalaga, Inside Centre Kemu Valetini, Hooker Ratu Penaia Cakobau, and Blindside Flanker Saimoni Uluinakauvadra.
The team comprises notable players such as Loose Head Prop Eroni Mawi, Haereiti Hetet, Livai Natave, Second Row Lock Isoa Nasilasila, and Mesake Vocevoce. Players also include Open Side Flanker Kitione Salawa, Vilive Miramira, Fly Half Caleb Muntz, Outside Centres Semi Radradra and Apisalome Vota, along with Hooker Samuel Matavesi and Mesulame Dolokoto.
The squad is further strengthened by Second Row Lock Temo Mayanavanua, Ratu Leone Rotuisolia, Eight Men Elia Canakaivata, and Albert Tuisue, as well as Left Wing Vuate Karawalevu, Ponipate Loganimasi, Right Wing Jiuta Wainiqolo, and Josua Tuisova.
The team includes Tight Head Prop Luke Tagi, Samuela Tawakw, Jone Koroiduadua, and Meli Tuni, alongside Blindside Flanker Ratu Meli Derenalagi, Scrum Half Frank Lomani, Simiome Kuruvoli, and Peni Matawalu.
Completing the squad are Inside Centre Inia Tabuavou, Vilimone Botitu, and Fullbacks Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Sireli Maqala, and Ilaisa Droasese.
The Flying Fijians will face Scotland on November 3, followed by a match against Wales on November 11, Spain on November 17, and conclude their series against Ireland on November 24.