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Josua Tuisova starts in Fiji team with multiple changes for Portugal
By Grant Constable
Fiji have named their team to take on Portugal in Toulouse, with Vilimoni Botitu starting at 10 for only the second time for Fiji in one of six changes to the starting line-up from their last game against Georgia.
The match will be the last in Pool play in Rugby World Cup 2023.
Among head coach Simon Raiwalui's changes, Temo Manyanavanua is set to make his first Rugby World Cup start, moving up from the bench, while Meli Derenalagi gears up for his World Cup debut, having already made waves in his test debut earlier this year.
Botitu will be in the spotlight as he wears the number 10 jersey for only the second time. Sireli Maqala, with minimal playtime so far, gets his first start.
Levani Botia, the sole survivor from Fiji's last match against Portugal in 2013, has been in outstanding form as he leads in offloads, defensive rucks (21), and the second most tackles(24).
PERMUTATIONS:
Fiji need just one point from the match to confirm second place in Pool C, which would take them equal with Australia but would see them go through on the head-to-head rule, having already beaten Australia.
If Fiji get nothing from the match, a loss with no losing bonus points, Australia will qualify for the quarter-finals as runners-up.
FIJI TEAM TO PLAY PORTUGAL IN TOULOUSE
1 Eroni Mawi
2 Samuel Matavesi
3 Luke Tagi
4 Isoa Nasilasila
5 Temo Mayanavanua
6 Meli Derenalagi
7 Levani Botia
8 Viliame Mata
9 Frank Lomani
10 Vilimoni Botitu
11 Vinaya Habosi
12 Josua Tuisova
13 Waisea Nayacalevu (c)
14 Selesitino Ravutaumada
15 Sireli Maqala
Replacements:
16 Tevita Ikanivere
17 Peni Ravai
18 Mesake Doge
19 Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta
20 Albert Tuisue
21 Peni Matawalu
22 Teti Tela
23 Iosefo Masi
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Latest Comments
Well said Mils. It is a big boost at last having Fergus Burke back at 10 for the Crusaders. Had a great season last year as the article says. Mils is also right about captain Codie Taylor’s performance in his return to the Crusaders last week. He was all class.
Go to commentsLet’s make them both Capt. I think we'd get the best of both of them and it would help alleviate some of the pressures of the role. They'd have to confer over on field decisions which should lead to “ learnings “ for both. They are our two best consistent performers.
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