PACIFIC Nations Cup champions Fiji have named a 39-player squad for the autumn Tests.
Head coach Mick Byrne’s squad boasts a mix of overseas-based talent for a tour that begins with a Test against Scotland on Saturday, before heading to Cardiff to face Wales the following Saturday, Spain on November 16 and finishing against Ireland on November 23.
The squad boasts world-class talent with experienced stars such as Waisale Nayacalevu (Sale Sharks), Semi Radradra (Lyon), and Josua Tuisova (Racing 92). The World Cup front row of Saracens’ Eroni Mawi, Lyon’s Sam Matavesi, and Bayonne’s Luke Tagi are set to feature, along with lock Isoa Nasilasila and Gloucester’s Albert Tuisue. Co-captain Tevita Ikanivere and Northampton lock Temo Mayanavanua also return.
Fijian Drua have 24 players in the squad. Four uncapped players – centre Waqa Nalaga, fly-half Kemu Valetini, hooker Penaia Cakobau, and back rower Saimoni Uluinakauvadra – are included. Valetini’s brother Rob plays for Australia.
FIJI SQUAD
Forwards: Eroni Mawi, Haereiti Hetet, Livai Natave, Luke Tagi, Samuela Tawake, Jone Koroiduadua, Meli Tuni, Tevita Ikanivere (cc), Sam Matavesi, Mesulame Dolokoto, Penaia Cakobau, Isoa Nasilasila, Me-sake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua, Leone Rotuisolia, Kitione Salawa, Vilive Miramira, Elia Canakaivata, Albert Tuisue, Meli Derenalagi, Saimoni Uluinakauvadra Backs: Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Sireli Maqala), Ilaisa Droasese, Vuate Karawalevu, Ponipate Loganimasi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Josua Tuisova, Waisale Nayacalevu (cc), Semi Radradra, Apisalome Vota, Inia Tabuavou, Vilimone Botitu, Waqa Nalaga, Kemu Valetini, Caleb Muntz, Frank Lomani, Simiome Kuruvoli, Peni Matawalu
