Fiji Giants (Tuwawa) Squad Released

The Fiji Rugby Union today released the Fiji Giants (Tuwawa) Squad to the Brisbane Global Tens tournament.

Hosted by the Queensland Rugby Union, the Brisbane Global Tens will see 12 world class men’s teams featuring 300 stars from Fiji, all the Australian and New Zealand Super sides, Japan’s Wild Knights and French powerhouse Pau battle it out in a knockout tournament over two days from the 9-10 of February at the Suncorp Stadium.

Laced with seasoned and young local players, the Fiji Giants (Tuwawa) will be sure to attract plenty support as the side makes its debut at this year’s tournament.

FRU CEO, Mr John O’Connor in farewelling the team, reminded them of the importance of this competition in terms of exposure and the pathway to higher national duties.

“This is a great opportunity to play at a higher level of competition for you and you must take advantage of this great opportunity.  So I challenge you to go out there showcase your talents make an impact and win the tournament.”

The Fiji Giants (Tuwawa) have been drawn together with the Brumbies, Crusaders, and Hurricanes in “Pool C” also dubbed the group of death.

Japan’s Wild Knights is in “Pool A” along with the Rebels, Reds and Blues while “Pool B” comprises of the defending champion Chiefs, Waratahs, Highlanders and another new club in French outfit Pau.

Pau’s squad includes former All Blacks Conrad Smith, Colin Slade, Jamie McIntosh, Benson Stanley and Frank Halai as well as former Wallabies skipper Ben Mowen.

Following the Brisbane Tens, the Fiji Giants (Tuwawa) will then play a Super Rugby Pre-season match against the Queensland Reds at Ballymore Stadium on Thursday, 15 February at 7pm.

O’Connor further encouraged the players to perform well at this match in order to be considered for selection for national duties.

“For players wanting to put their hands up for national duties, this will be your opportunity to showcase to the coaches what you have.  Again I remind you that what you display on the field in terms of agility, fitness and discipline will make you stand out and get selected.”

The Senirusi Seruvakula coached side departed for Brisbane this afternoon.

The Selected Players are:

Prop – Joeli Veitayaki, Mosese Ducivaki, Kalivati Tawake, Eroni Mawi, Timoci Sauvoli.

Hooker – Ratunaisa Navuma, Vesi Rarawa, Veremalua Vugakoto.

Locks/Flanker – Fabiano Rogovakalali, Levani Kurimudu, Viliame Rarasea, Albert Tuisue, Mosese Voka, Peni Raidre, Filimoni Seru.

Half Back/Fly Half – Serupepeli Vularika, Frank Lomani

1^st Five – Jone Manu.

Centre – Ifereimi Tovilevu, Lepani Raiyala, Penasio Kunabuli, Enele Malele.

Wing/Full Back – Aporosa Tabulawaki, Timoci Sinate, Inia Tawalo.

Chris Kuridrani is likely to join the team to replace Seru Cavuilati who was not able to travel.