Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s head coach, Glen Jackson, is prioritizing player freshness as the team prepares to face the Waratahs in Round 3 of the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific. After a demanding trip back from Napier, New Zealand, the squad will see 10 changes to its match day lineup this week.
Jackson is bringing back players who previously showed promise against the Brumbies two weeks ago, including Etonia Waqa, who makes his return after a lengthy injury hiatus. The team’s centers, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Inia Tabuavou, will remain unchanged from the last match, ensuring continuity in the critical midfield area.
In the starting fifteen, the front row is restructured with Haereiti Hetet at loosehead prop, Samuela Tawake at tight-head, and team captain Tevita Ikanivere at hooker. The middle row will feature Isoa Nasilasila and Leone Rotuisolia, while the back row sees Joseva Tamani as blindside flanker, Motikiai Murray at openside, and Meli Derenalagi positioned as number 8.
The backline is set to be dynamic with Simione Kuruvoli at halfback and Caleb Muntz taking the role of flyhalf. The wings will see the return of Vuate Karawalevu and Ponipate Loganimasi, while Ilaisa Droasese completes the lineup at fullback.
The bench, designed for impactful substitutions, includes Mesulame Dolokoto as backup hooker, Livai Natave at loosehead, and Mesake Doge at tight-head. Waqa will provide depth in the locks, with Kitione Salawa backing up the loose forwards trio. Additionally, Peni Matawalu will cover halfback duties with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula as the flyhalf cover, and Kemu Valetini completing the match day squad as a versatile backline utility.
This strategic rotation reflects Jackson’s commitment to maintaining player fitness throughout the demanding Super Rugby season, especially considering the challenges posed by tight turnaround times and travel. Fans can look forward to seeing a refreshed Drua squad that melds experience with emerging talent, hopeful that this mix will translate into improved performance as the season progresses.
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