Uluinakauvadra Set to Make His Mark in Fiery Test Against Spain

Backrower Saimoni Uluinakauvadra is poised to make a significant impact as he prepares for his debut in the Flying Fijians starting lineup. At 26 years old, he has been named openside flanker for the upcoming Test match against Spain in Valladolid, set to occur early Sunday (Fiji time).

Head coach Mick Byrne expressed confidence in Uluinakauvadra’s abilities, noting his physicality and fitness at the flanker position. “Sai plays really hard and he’s just about to make his debut. He is a product of our system over the years,” Byrne highlighted.

Uluinakauvadra’s rugby career showcases his dedication and skill, having played for the Tanihwa Northland rugby team in the New Zealand National Provincial Championship for the past two years. His journey includes representing the Fiji Under-20 rugby side, which triumphed in the World Rugby U20 Trophy final in 2018, and playing for the Fijian Warriors in the 2019 World Rugby Pacific Challenge. Later that same year, he was a part of the Flying Fijians squad that narrowly beat the Barbarians 33-31 at Twickenham.

Byrne has emphasized that the upcoming match against Spain will be particularly challenging, predicting a physical game from their opponents. He noted the need for his team to enhance their defense and rectify mistakes that have led to conceding tries, as witnessed in their recent game against Wales.

In terms of injuries, Byrne confirmed that lock Isoa Nasilasila would not be playing, along with Vuate Karawalevu, as both require rest. Despite these setbacks, the coach is optimistic about the squad’s depth, which has been a focus of their preparations.

The match is set to begin at 2 AM.

The Flying Fijians’ lineup features:

Forwards:
1. Eroni Mawi (Saracens)
2. Sam Matavesi (Lyon)
3. Luke Tagi (Bayonne)
4. Mesake Vocevoce (Fijian Drua)
5. Leone Rotuisolia (Fijian Drua)
6. Vilive Miramira (Fijian Drua)
7. Saimoni Uluinakauvadra (Northland)
8. Albert Tuisue (Gloucester)

Backs:
9. Simi Kuruvoli (Fijian Drua)
10. Caleb Muntz (Fijian Drua)
11. Ponipate Loganimasi (Fijian Drua)
12. Waisea Nayacalevu (Sale Sharks)
13. Sireli Maqala (Bayonne)
14. Jiuta Wainiqolo (Toulon)
15. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula (Fijian Drua)

Reserves:
16. Mesulame Dolokoto (Fijian Drua)
17. Haereiti Hetet (Fijian Drua)
18. Jone Koroiduadua (Fijian Drua)
19. Temo Mayanavanua (Northampton Saints)
20. Elia Canakaivata (Fijian Drua)
21. Peni Matawalu (Fijian Drua)
22. Vilimoni Botitu (Castres)
23. Inia Tabuavou (Fijian Drua)

In conclusion, as Uluinakauvadra takes the field for his much-anticipated debut, it embodies the culmination of years of hard work and dedication in Fiji’s rugby program. This opportunity not only highlights the potential of young talents in the national team but also signals a promising future for Fijian rugby on the international stage. With the right support and training, Uluinakauvadra could become a key player in the Flying Fijians’ campaign moving forward.