Flying Fijians Coach Mick Byrne Makes Key Changes for Spain Test

Fiji’s head coach Mick Byrne has made several significant changes to the Flying Fijians starting lineup for this weekend’s match against Spain, following their 24-19 win to Wales last weekend.

Byrne says Isoa Nasilasila has been ruled out of the rest of the tournament due to injury while Vuate Karawalevu sits out this game to an injury and will be assessed for his availability for the game against Ireland.

Mick Byrne shared: “We’ve had a few players come in with niggling injuries from the PNC and playing 4 tests in a row makes it difficult. So, opportunity given to them to freshen up before next week but also the opportunity for our squad to show their depth we’ve been able to acquire over the last 12 to 18 months.

Given the changes, the National Coach believes the selected team should have an impact in this weekend’s match against Spain. A quick look at the team:

• Sam Matavesi will start as Hooker in place of Tevita Ikanivere, who takes a break.
• Luke Tagi steps in for Samuela Tawake in the front row, while Mesake Vocevoce replaces the injured Isoa Nasilasila.
• Ratu Leone Rotuisolia gets a start, replacing Temo Mayanavanua in the back row.
• In the second row, Vilive Miramira comes in for Ratu Meli Derenalagi, forming a new partnership with Rotuisolia.
• Saimoni Uluinakauvadra earns his debut in place of Kitione Salawa, adding fresh energy to the squad.
• The forward pack is further strengthened with the inclusion of experienced Number 8 Albert Tuisue.
• In a tactical shift, Simi Kuruvoli replaces Frank Lomani at halfback, with Kuruvoli expected to support the kicking duties alongside the in-form fly-half Caleb Muntz.
• Ponipate Loganimasi has been given a starting role on the wing replacing Semi Radradra, who has been ruled out for the rest of the tour due to a red card in the Wales match.
• The team will be led by Waisea Nayacalevu, who continues in the captaincy role and will play a crucial part at inside center. Sireli Maqala slots in at outside center (13), with Jiuta Wainiqolo remaining on the wing at 14. Isaiah Ravula is set to start at fullback, where his kicking game will be vital for tactical play.

The FIJI Water Flying Fijians match against Spain kicks-off at 2am (Fiji Time) on Sunday 17^th November and you can watch the game live on FBC Sports.