Taniela Rakuro has been described by FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne as a tough, fast-developing winger, ahead of the Pacific Nations Cup opener against Tonga this Saturday.
Rakuro’s inclusion comes as a replacement for Selestino Ravutaumada, who is not part of the Flying Fijians’ PNC squad after signing with French Top 14 club Lyon. Byrne praised Rakuro’s potential, noting that the young professional has been learning rapidly and possesses the pace to trouble defenses. “We all know Taniela has jet shoes, and we hope he can get a clear run and show what he can do,” Byrne said. He added that Rakuro’s age is part of his strength, emphasizing that he’s been developing his game and is unafraid of the physical contests that come with test rugby.
Rakuro’s work rate in contact areas was highlighted, with Byrne pointing out how he presents himself in collisions despite his speed. The coach stressed that Rakuro is still learning, but his willingness to engage physically bodes well for the squad’s balance on the edge.
Rakuro was named in the 30-man Flying Fijians squad assembled for the Pacific Nations Cup, which began recently. He arrives from the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, joining teammates Isoa Tuwai and Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, and is part of a forward pack and backline that includes a strong Drua influence. Other Drua-tested players in the squad include Haereiti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Tevita Ikanivere, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Zuriel Togiatama, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Etonia Waqa, Elia Canakaivata, Motikiai Murray and Kitione Salawa in the forwards, with Philip Baselala, Simione Kuruvoli, Kemu Valetini, Caleb Muntz, Inia Tabuavou, Ponipate Loganimasi and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula in the backs joining Rakuro.
The match against Tonga kicks off at 3pm and will be staged at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
What Rakuro’s selection signals
– Youth with continuity: Rakuro’s progression mirrors Fiji’s trend of blending emerging talent with an experienced Drua core, maintaining cohesion in set-piece and attack.
– Drua pathway to the national team: The squad continues to lean on Drua combinations to provide weaponry and balance, while also incorporating established overseas experience.
– Depth at wing and outside backs: Rakuro’s inclusion adds pace and finishing potential on the edge, complementing other fast ball runners in the backline.
What to watch
– Rakuro’s speed and decision-making on attack, especially in open space.
– How the back three link with the midfield and whether Drua-linked combinations translate into quick ball and scoring opportunities.
– Fiji’s ability to harness young talent while maintaining discipline and set-piece accuracy against Tonga’s direct style.
Positive note
The mix of fresh talent like Rakuro with the Drua’s proven pathways gives Fiji considerable depth and a clear plan for ongoing development as they push toward larger goals, including future World Cup cycles.
Summary
Taniela Rakuro is set to make his mark for the Flying Fijians in the Pacific Nations Cup, stepping in as a fresh, speedy winger alongside a Drua-heavy squad. The nation hosts Tonga in Suva on Saturday, aiming to start the tournament with momentum and a clear display of depth and youth.
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