Viliame Mata, the powerful number eight, is set to make his long-anticipated debut for the Bristol Bears during this weekend’s Gallagher Premiership match against the Harlequins. After recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in the pre-season, the Fijian star has officially been included in the starting lineup.
This match will also mark the first opportunity for Mata to play alongside his compatriot, Kalaveti Ravouvou, who has established himself as a regular starter at outside centre. The Bears are gearing up to face the Harlequins at Twickenham Stoop tomorrow, with kick-off scheduled for 7:45 am.
The Bristol Bears line-up features 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. On the bench are Harry Thacker, Yann Thomas, Lovejoy Chawatama, Steven Luatua, Benjamin Grondona, Oscar Lennon, Joe Jenkins, and Benjamin Elizalde.
In summary, Viliame Mata’s return from injury is generating excitement among fans, not only for his individual performance but also for the new dynamic he will bring to the Bears alongside Ravouvou. This match presents a significant opportunity for the Bristol Bears to showcase their strength and cohesion on the field. The hopeful anticipation for this match heightens as fans look forward to witnessing Mata’s debut and the combined impact of their Fijian players.
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