“New Faces and Experienced Hands: Fiji’s Dynamic Lineup Takes on Georgia in Rugby Showdown”
Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, a promising playmaker, is poised to make his Test debut as part of Fiji’s matchday squad against Georgia at Adjarabet Arena this Saturday morning (Fiji time). He joins four other uncapped players in the squad.
Armstrong-Ravula, the nephew of former All Blacks flyhalf Richie Mo’unga, was on the bench but did not play during Fiji’s recent match against the Barbarians at Twickenham, where they narrowly lost 45-32. Earlier this year, the 20-year-old established himself as the first-choice No. 10 for the Fijian Drua in Super Rugby Pacific, starting in 14 matches, including the quarter-final against the Blues at Eden Park in Auckland.
Another potential debutant from the Fijian Drua squad is Elia Canakaivata, who is set to come off the bench. The starting lineup includes three other uncapped players: Kitione Salawa in the backrow, Peniasi Dakuwaqa at outside back for Stade Francais, and Inia Tabuavou at centre for Racing 92.
Fiji’s starting XV against Georgia shows significant changes from the Barbarians match, with an entirely new front row featuring Eroni Mawi, Tevita Ikanivere, and Mesaka Doge. Isoa Nasilasila and Temo Mayanavanua form the new second row combination.
Coach Mick Byrne has selected Pau backrower Lekima Tagitagivalu to play at blindside flanker, while newcomer Salawa will make his debut at openside flanker. Olympic gold medallist Viliame Mata completes the forward pack as the starting No. 8.
In the halves, Frank Lomani partners with Vilimoni Botitu, while the midfield features debutant Inia Tabuavou alongside captain Waisea Nayacalevu.
On the wings, Peniasi Dakuwaqa will play on the left and Jiuta Wainiqolo on the right, with Ilaisa Droasese from the Fijian Drua slotting in at fullback.
Among the substitutes, Queensland Reds’ Peni Ravai and Fijian Drua’s Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula are notable mentions to watch out for.
The match, taking place in Georgia, kicks off at 4:00 am (Fijian time) on Saturday morning. Fijian fans can catch the Test live on Sky Pacific.