Recent allegations made by senior players Waisea Nayacalevu, Levani Botia, and Semi Radradra against the Fiji Rugby Union have not affected the selection choices of FIJI Water Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne for the upcoming test matches in November.
Nayacalevu and Swire Shipping Fijian Drua hooker Tevita Ikanivere have been appointed as co-captains for the forthcoming test series.
Mick Byrne has announced a 39-man squad for the team’s match against Scotland next month, which includes four players who will be making their international debuts. The newcomers are Outside Centre Waqa Nalaga, Inside Centre Kemu Valetini, Hooker Ratu Penaia Cakobau, and Blindside Flanker Saimoni Uluinakauvadra.
The squad features notable players including Loose Head Prop Eroni Mawi, Haereiti Hetet, Livai Natave, Second Row Lock Isoa Nasilasila, and Mesake Vocevoce. Additional team members include Open Side Flanker Kitione Salawa, Vilive Miramira, Fly Half Caleb Muntz, Outside Centres Semi Radradra and Apisalome Vota, along with Hookers Samuel Matavesi and Mesulame Dolokoto.
Second Row Locks Temo Mayanavanua and Ratu Leone Rotuisolia, as well as Eight Man Elia Canakaivata and Albert Tuisue, are also included in the roster. The squad features Left Wing Vuate Karawalevu, Ponipate Loganimasi, Right Wing Jiuta Wainiqolo, and Josua Tuisova.
Additionally, Tight Head Prop Luke Tagi, Samuela Tawakw, Jone Koroiduadua, and Meli Tuni are all part of the team, along with 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 are set to face Scotland on November 3rd in their first test, followed by matches against Wales on November 11 and Spain on November 17. They will conclude their series with a match against Ireland on November 24.