This is a crucial opportunity for backrower Saimoni Uluinakauvadra to prove his capabilities and secure a position in the starting lineup of the Flying Fijians. Head coach Mick Byrne has named the 26-year-old to play openside flanker in the upcoming Test match against Spain in Valladolid.
“Sai is very physical and fit to play at seven,” Byrne noted, expressing confidence in Uluinakauvadra’s hard-hitting style and readiness for his debut. The athlete has been competing with Tanihwa Northland in the New Zealand National Provincial Championship (NPC) for the last two years.
Uluinakauvadra’s rugby journey has been impressive; he played for the Fiji Under-20 rugby team that triumphed in the World Rugby U20 Trophy final in 2018. He also represented the Fijian Warriors in the 2019 World Rugby Pacific Challenge and joined the Flying Fijians squad that narrowly defeated the Barbarians at Twickenham later that same year.
Byrne emphasized that the match against Spain will be a challenging physical contest. “They are going to come hard on us. Spain will be aggressive and full of energy,” he remarked. The team has focused on fortifying their defense, as well as minimizing errors and refining their kicking game to gain territory advantage.
The coach confirmed that lock Isoa Nasilasila and Vuate Karawalevu would be resting due to injuries sustained after the Pacific Nations Cup, but expressed optimism about the depth in their squad. “We are fortunate to have depth in each position, something we’ve been working hard on,” he stated.
The match is set to kick off at 2 AM, and the Flying Fijians are eager to showcase their strength and skill.
Fiji’s starting lineup includes:
Forwards: Eroni Mawi (Saracens), Sam Matavesi (Lyon), Luke Tagi (Bayonne), Mesake Vocevoce (Fijian Drua), Leone Rotuisolia (Fijian Drua), Vilive Miramira (Fijian Drua), Saimoni Uluinakauvadra (Northland), Albert Tuisue (Gloucester).
Backs: Simi Kuruvoli (Fijian Drua), Caleb Muntz (Fijian Drua), Ponipate Loganimasi (Fijian Drua), Waisea Nayacalevu (Sale Sharks), Sireli Maqala (Bayonne), Jiuta Wainiqolo (Toulon), Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula (Fijian Drua).
Reserves: Mesulame Dolokoto (Fijian Drua), Haereiti Hetet (Fijian Drua), Jone Koroiduadua (Fijian Drua), Temo Mayanavanua (Northampton Saints), Elia Canakaivata (Fijian Drua), Peni Matawalu (Fijian Drua), Vilimoni Botitu (Castres), Inia Tabuavou (Fijian Drua).
This upcoming clash is sure to be an exciting matchup, and fans will be keen to see if Uluinakauvadra can deliver a standout performance in his first international outing. It’s a moment for the younger talent to shine and perhaps pave the way for a bright future with the national team.
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