Former All Blacks sevens and Hurricanes winger Salesi Rayasi is set to make his debut for the Fiji Water Flying Fijians against the Wallabies at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle, Australia, tomorrow. Named at fullback by head coach Mick Byrne, Rayasi brings valuable experience from his time in Super Rugby, where he made over 50 appearances for the Hurricanes. Following his move to the French Top 14 with RC Vannes, where he started 20 matches this season, anticipation is high for his performance on the international stage.
Mick Byrne expressed his excitement about Rayasi’s addition to the squad, stating, “He is a very accomplished player, very skillful… I like the way he has been training.” Rayasi’s debut symbolizes a fresh wave of talent within the team, as he is the only debutant in the starting lineup, while Drua halfback Philip Baselala is also poised for a potential debut from the bench.
The Flying Fijians have trained under challenging weather conditions, showcasing their resilience and adaptability, which are crucial as they prepare for this significant matchup. Byrne noted the growing excitement surrounding the team, especially with the upcoming Lions series heightening interest in rugby in the region.
This match offers an exciting opportunity for Fiji to demonstrate their growth as a rugby nation, especially following their successes in recent competitions. The team has reportedly gelled well together, creating a strong sense of unity among players from both local leagues and overseas clubs.
Tomorrow’s kickoff is set for 3:30 PM, and with the blend of upcoming talent and experienced hands, fans eagerly await what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The match underscores not only the competitive spirit of Fijian rugby but also offers hope for inspiring future generations of rugby players in Fiji.
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