Exclusive: Fiji give a former rugby league star his Test debut during the Pacific Nations Cup.
Fiji has revealed the lineup it will field against Samoa in the opening round of the Pacific Nations Cup on Friday. Test debuts for full-back Vuate Karawalevu and left winger Epeli Momo will be made by the Flying Fijians squad. Momo came home to play for the Fijian Drua after rising through the ranks of the Fiji U20 and Warriors and playing professionally in France. Cross-code athlete Karawalevu has returned to the NSW Waratahs’ 15-a-side lineup following his Fijian national team’s 2021 Rugby League World Cup representation.
The starting lineup also includes Iosefo Baleiwairiki and Selesitino Ravutaumada, two Olympic silver medallists from Paris 2024. Samu Tawake, a tight-head prop, and Elia Canakaivata, a number eight, will make their squad debuts. Frank Lomani, a scrum-half with 33 test caps, adds experience to an otherwise youthful XV. In addition to Fijian Drua center Apisalome Vota, who will make his Test debut, experienced players Eroni Mawi, Peni Ravai, and Albert Tuisue are ready to start on the bench.
FIJI:
1. Haereiti Hetet
2. Tevita Ikanivere (captain)
3. Samu Tawake
4. Isoa Nasilasila
5. Temo Mayanavanua
6. Meli Derenalagi
7. Kitione Salawa
8. Elia Canakaivata
9. Frank Lomani
10. Caleb Muntz
11. Epeli Momo
12. Inia Tabuavou
13. Iosefo Baleiwairiki
14. Selesitino Ravutaumada
15. Vuate Karawalevu
Replacements:
16. Mesulame Dolokoto
17. Eroni Mawi
18. Peni Ravai
19. Mesake Vocevoce
20. Albert Tuisue
21. Moses Sorovi
22. Isiah Ravula
23. Apisalome Vota