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Exciting Fiji team named to continue their good run of form
By Grant Constable
Fiji's head coach, Simon Raiwalui, has announced the squad to face Georgia in Pool C at Stade de Bordeaux on Saturday, 30 September.
Raiwalui has made one change to the starting XV, with Selesitino Ravutaumada taking the wing, replacing Jiuta Wainiqolo.
Nine players from the squad featured in the 15-15 draw against Georgia in 2021: Eroni Mawi, Sam Matavesi, Peni Ravai, Viliame Mata, Frank Lomani, Vilimoni Botitu, Josua Tuisova, Albert Tuisue, and captain Waisea Nayacalevu. Viliame Mata scored one of Fiji's tries in that match.
Josua Tuisova recorded the most carries for Fiji against Australia, with ten carries for 123 meters and five defenders beaten.
Semi Radradra, who scored two tries against Georgia in RWC 2019, has recorded the second-most carries and defenders beaten for Fiji in RWC 2023, while Levani Botia has a perfect tackle record, completing all 13 attempts.
If utilized, Samu Tawake will make his Rugby World Cup debut, marking his fourth test appearance.
FIJI TEAM TO FACE GEORGIA IN BORDEAUX
1 Eroni Mawi
2 Samuel Matavesi
3 Luke Tagi
4 Isoa Nasilasila
5 Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta
6 Lekima Tagitagivalu
7 Levani Botia
8 Viliame Mata
9 Simione Kuruvoli
10 Teti Tela
11 Semi Radradra
12 Josua Tuisova
13 Waisea Nayacalevu (c)
14 Selesitino Ravutaumada
15 Ilaisa Droasese
Replacements:
16 Tevita Ikanivere
17 Peni Ravai
18 Samu Tawake
19 Temo Mayanavanua
20 Albert Tuisue
21 Frank Lomani
22 Vilimoni Botitu
23 Vinaya Habosi
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Latest Comments
Who, Berry?! His rudeness to Kolisi, our freaking captain, was there for all to see!! Utterly disgraceful.
Erm, I only had one statement - as in 'only one full stop' so not sure where the 'irrelevance' comes in?
Go to commentsLet's be clear: Foster did not back unaquivocally players such as Vaa'i, Tamaiti and Roigard. Yes, he selected them in the squad, but it's a stretch to say he backed them. Those three players have only been backed fully this year (and thrived) under the new regime. There was massive hesitation to give those three guys serious game time in games of consequence.
It's another not-so-subtle dig from the old dynasty at any achievements Razor may be credited for.
Roigard in particular was a mind-baffling omission from the finals of the WC. After being the AB's best player against SA in the pre-WC match, he was not sighted in the big games that followed. Roigard is the type of guy who can win a game with a moment of brilliance, yet the established but uninspiring Christie was preferred to close out a close WC final.
So please, Fozzie, spare us the barely veiled laments about your unfair treatment and unseen achievements. The fact you feel you have to point them out is telling in itself. And it shows that despite saying you've moved on, you and your mate Hansen most definitely haven't.
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