Pacific

Tela to make Drua debut against former Reds teammates

09:22 am on 11 March 2022

Fiji Drua head coach Mick Byrne has named his 23-member line-up for this weekend's Round 4 clash against the Reds.

Fiji Drua beat the Melbourne Rebels 31-26 in round three of Rugby Super Pacific Photo: Fiji Drua

Flanker Meli Derenalagi captains the side again this week in the continued absence of Nemani Nagusa, while the matchday 23 also features three potential Drua debutants.

In the front row, Kaliopasi Uluilakepa (1) and Samuela Tawake (2) retain their loosehead and tighthead prop roles respectively, while hooker Mesulame Dolokoto (2) gets the nod for his Super Rugby Pacific debut.

The locking partnership of Isoa Nasilasila (4) and Ratu Rotuisolia (5) remain intact, while the loose forward trio of captain Meli Derenalagi (6), Vilive Miramira (7) and Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta (8) again make the starting lineup.

Peni Matawalu (9) is at halfback, while Teti Tela (10), fresh from his 14 points in Round 3 with the Rebels will make his starting debut for the Drua against his former club.

Byrne has retained his centre pairing of Kalaveti Ravouvou (12) and Apisalome Vota (13), who was voted Man of the Match last week.

Vinaya Habosi (11) dons the left wing jumper for the fourth week straight, while Selestino Ravutaumada (14) is on the right wing and Baden Kerr (15) is at fullback.

Three potential debutants are among the replacements this week. Zuriel Togiatama (16) makes his first appearance on the bench, alongside other front row reserves in Jone Koroiduadua (17) and Manasa Saulo (18).

Sorovakatini Tuifagalele (19) also makes the matchday 23 for the first time this season, while Joseva Tamani returns in jersey 20.

It's also a welcome return to Super Rugby Pacific for Flying Fijians halfback Frank Lomani (21) who earns a place on the bench. Utility backs Jona Mataiciwa (22) and Onisi Ratave (23) complete the matchday 23.