Captain Nemani Nagusa is back fot the Fiji Drua at No.8 for the Super Rugby Pacific ggame against the Western Force at Leichhardt Oval on Saturday
Fiji Drua captain Nemani Nagusa suffered a knee injury in round two against the Brumbies Photo: Fiji Frua
Nagusa suffered a knee injury in the round two match against the Brumbies.
The Round fiive match has seen last week's front row of Kaliopasi Uluilakepa (1), Mesulame Dolokoto (2) and Samuela Tawake (3) retained.
Sorovakatini Tuifagalele (4) makes the starting line-up for the first time and will partner Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta (5) at lock.
Jovesa Tamani (6) starts at blindside flanker this week, with Vilive Miramira (7) retaining his openside flanker role, while it's a welcome return to the team for captain Nemani Nagusa as number 8 loose forward.
In the backline, Frank Lomani (9) gets a start this week at half-back, partnering Teti Tela (10) who is at flyhalf.
Kalaveti Ravouvou (12) starts at inside centre alongside outside centre Apisalome Vota (13), who leads the competition in defenders beaten after 4 rounds.
Vinaya Habosi (11) and Selestino Ravutaumada (14) are on the wings, and young Jona Mataiciwa (15) get his first start at fullback.
The replacements see Zuriel Togiatama (16), Jone Koroiduadua (17) and Manasa Saulo (18) as front row cover.
Chris Minimbi (19) is in line for a potential debut after being named in the matchday 23 for the first time. Kitione Salawa (20) also makes a return to the squad as reserve flanker. Peni Matawalu (21), Napolioni Bolaca (22) and Onisi Ratave (23) complete the matchday squad.
"We are looking forward to our next challenge as we build into Super Rugby. We are also looking forward to playing in Sydney in front of our loyal Fijian fans," Head-Coach Mick Byrne said.
The match kicks off at 2.35pm (5.35pm NZT) on Saturday 19 March.