Former national defender Kishan Sami is set to make a comeback for Lautoka as they prepare for the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC), which begins on Tuesday at Churchill Park. Sami, who had considered a transfer to Rewa during the mid-season window, has been absent from Lautoka’s lineup for some time. He recently showcased his skills by captaining Sydney Suva to victory in the Sanatan World Cup held in Australia.
His return is anticipated to strengthen the Blues’ defensive lineup, providing the coaching staff with additional options. Sami is expected to collaborate with players like Ilimotama Jese, Sakaraia Naisua, Sterling Vasconcellos, Epeli Leiroti, and Antonio Tuivuna.
In addition to Sami, experienced goalkeeper Senirusi Bokini will also rejoin the squad after missing the Battle of the Giants due to disciplinary reasons.
Lautoka is placed in Group A along with Flick Hygiene Suva, Extra Supermarket Labasa, and Stratum Construction/Zeg Investment Navua. The team will kick off its campaign against Navua at 6 PM on Tuesday.
The Lautoka squad includes: Epeli Vunivola, Epeli Leiroti, Zibraaz Sahib, Veleni Rasorewa, Sitiveni Cavuilagi, Maciu Tuinuku, Aporosa Yada, Apisalome Ravouvou, Ilisoni Logaivou, Shiva Pillay, Ilimorama Jese, Kishan Sami, Muni Shivam Naidu, Sairusi Nalaubu, Saula Waqa, Antonio Tuivuna, Sterling Vasconcellos, Usman Omede, Poasa Bainivalu, Sakaraia Naisua, Senirusi Bokini, and Beniamino Mateinaqara.