Leawere names an exciting squad for WRPC opener

Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors Head Coach Kele Leawere has named a young and energetic team for the opening World Rugby Pacific Challenge clash against Samoa A at ANZ Stadium in Suva tomorrow.

Leawere said “Our squad consists majority of the players who represented Fiji at the Junior World Championship in Argentina last year.”

He added “These players have a bright future and this is the right time to give them this opportunity.”

A powerful front-row consisting of hookers Meli Tuni, Joseva Nasaroa and hooker Lino Vasuinadi has been lined up.

Expect more physicality, strength and power in the forwards with Fijian 7s squad member Anasa Qaranivalu, towering Chris Minimbi, Vilive Miramira and Josateki Tuituba making up the pack.

An electric backline including Skipper Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Simione Kuruvoli who were part of the Fijian Warriors side last year, form the halves combination supported by the experience of Filimino Savou in the midfield and Flying Fijian Jiuta Wainiqolo with speed on the wings.

Leawere said “We know we have a huge responsibility up our sleeves which we will try and deliver.

“These players have been together since last year therefore we have the right mindset and team bonding.”

“We expect Samoans to get physical which we have prepared for since early this year” he said.

The Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors face Samoa A at 5om. In a match earlier Tonga A meets Junior Japan at 2.30pm. All the games will be played at ANZ Stadium.

Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors VS Samoa A

1. Meli Tuni
2. Lino Vasuinadi
3. Joseva Nasaroa
4. Isoa Nasilasila
5. Chris Minimbi
6. Anasa Qaranivalu
7. Vilive Miramira
8. Josateki Tuituba
9. Simione Kuruvoli
10. Tuidraki Samusamuvodre (c)
11. Epeli Momo
12. Filimoni Savou
13. Jonetani Vasurakauta
14. Jiuta Wainiqolo
15. Josateki Degei

Reserves 
16. Jone Naqiri
17. Immanuel Naciva
18. Apakuki Naivanawalu
19. Seeto Yabaki
20. Kitione Salawa
21. Taitusi Lulusini
22. Taniela Soqonawasaloa
23. Viliame Qalovi