Experience and power ready to front Georgia
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians coach John McKee has managed to select a full strength side to face Georgia as they chase their first win in the Rugby World Cup in Japan.
Flankers Peceli Yato and Semi Kunatani have been declared fit and will run full speed into this crucial Pool D contest.
McKee said “This match against Georgia was always going to be a key match in this pool and nothing has changed.”
“There is plenty at stake in this game as a top three finish in our pool means automatic qualification for RWC 2023”
With the Georgians known for their ruthless forwards, Fiji will counter with a fierce pack of their own come Thursday night.
“We know Georgia’s strengths and are prepared for a battle around the set pieces and the breakdown” he said.
Campese Ma’afu, Sam Matavesi and Manasa Saulo will take charge in an experienced Fijian front row.
Leone Nakarawa and Tevita Cavubati partner up at locks while Semi Kunatani earns his RWC debut on the flanks together with skipper Dominiko Waqaniburotu. Peceli Yato is welcomed back having recovered from the concussion against Australia.
Fiji’s hard hitting and pacey backline combination that impressed againt Australia reforms with Frank Lomani and Ben Volavola in the halves, Semi Radradra and Josua Tuisova on the wings and Levani Botia and Waisea Nayacalevu in the centres.
Kini Murimurivalu will be at full-back.
“The team remains very focused and determined to put in a performance that will make Fijians at home and all around the world feel proud” he said.
The Flying Fijians face Georgia in their third pool match at 7.15pm (5.15pm FJT) at Hanazono Rugby Stadium, Osaka in Japan.
2019 Rugby World Cup Pool D Game Three v Georgia
Flying Fijians Team
- Campese Ma’afu
- Samuel Matavesi
- Manasa Saulo
- Tevita Cavubati
- Leone Nakarawa
- Dominiko Waqaniburotu
- Semi Kunatani
- Peceli Yato
- Frank Lomani
- Ben Volavola
- Semi Radradra
- Levani Botia
- Waisea Nayacalevu
- Josua Tuisova
- Kini Murimurivalu
Reserves
16. Ratu Veremalua Vugakoto
17. Eroni Mawi
18. Peni Ravai
19. Apisamole Ratuniyarawa
20. Viliame Mata
21. Nikola Matawalu
22. Jale Vatubua
23. Josh MatavesiF