Recent allegations by senior players Waisea Nayacalevu, Levani Botia, and Semi Radradra concerning the Fiji Rugby Union have not impacted the selection process of the 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 these matches.
Byrne has announced a 39-member squad for the test match against Scotland scheduled for next month, which includes four debut players: Outside Centre Waqa Nalaga, Inside Centre Kemu Valetini, Hooker Ratu Penaia Cakobau, and Blindside Flanker Saimoni Uluinakauvadra.
The squad comprises notable players such as Loose Head Prop Eroni Mawi, Haereiti Hetet, Livai Natave, Second Row Lock Isoa Nasilasila, and Mesake Vocevoce. Open Side Flanker Kitione Salawa, Vilive Miramira, Fly Half Caleb Muntz, and Outside Centres Semi Radradra and Apisalome Vota are also included, alongside Hookers Samuel Matavesi and Mesulame Dolokoto.
Further members of the team include Second Row Lock Temo Mayanavanua, Ratu Leone Rotuisolia, Eight Man Elia Canakaivata, and Albert Tuisue. The squad also features Left Wing Vuate Karawalevu, Ponipate Loganimasi, Right Wing Jiuta Wainiqolo, and Josua Tuisova.
Additionally, Tight Head Prop Luke Tagi, Samuela Tawakw, Jone Koroiduadua, Meli Tuni, Blindside Flanker Ratu Meli Derenalagi, Scrum Half Frank Lomani, Simiome Kuruvoli, and Peni Matawalu are part of the roster. Inside Centre Inia Tabuavou, Vilimone Botitu, Fullbacks Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Sireli Maqala, and Ilaisa Droasese round out the squad.
The Flying Fijians are set to face Scotland on November 3rd, followed by matches against Wales on November 11, Spain on November 17, and Ireland on November 24, marking the final test of the series.