Viliame Mata, the powerful number eight, is set to make his much-anticipated debut for the Bristol Bears in the Gallagher Premiership match against the Harlequins this weekend. After a spell on the sidelines due to a hamstring injury sustained during pre-season, the Fijian player has been confirmed in the starting lineup.
This match will also mark the first time Mata plays alongside fellow Fijian Kalaveti Ravouvou, who has established himself as a solid starter at outside centre. The Bears will face the Harlequins at the Twickenham Stoop, with kickoff scheduled for tomorrow morning at 7:45 AM.
The Bristol Bears team for the match includes: Rich Lane, Jack Bates, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Gabriel Ibitoye, AJ MacGinty, Kieran Marmion, Jake Woolmore, Gabriel Oghre, Max Lahiff, James Dun, Joe Owen, Santiago Grondona, Fitz Harding (C), and Viliame Mata. The reserves consist of Harry Thacker, Yann Thomas, Lovejoy Chawatama, Steven Luatua, Benjamin Grondona, Oscar Lennon, Joe Jenkins, and Benjamin Elizalde.
This debut brings a sense of excitement and optimism to the Bears’ ambitions for the season, with Mata’s strength and experience likely to make a significant impact on the field. The combination of these two Fijian players could enhance the team’s performance, contributing to their prospects in the competitive league.
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