Experienced Fijian Drua tighthead prop Mesake Doge gets the nod to captain the side in Saturday’s Super Rugby Pacific clash against Queensland Reds at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium.
The 32-year-old becomes the fourth Drua captain this season. He takes over from Mesulame Dolokoto who is rested in this encounter.
Drua head coach Glen Jackson has made key changes in the backline with Kemu Valetini getting his first start at first five-eighth while opting for a new centre partnership of Inia Tabuavou and Vuate Karawalevu.
Isaiah Armstrong- Ravula will be at full-back. On the wings are Taniela Rakuro and Selestino Ravutaumada.
Jackson has gone for a six forwards and two backs split on the bench.
Meanwhile, the Reds arrived into the country last night.
Accompanying the team were former Fiji Under-20 players of Seru Uru, Filipo Daugunu and prop Alex Hodgman.
Uru has been named at blindside flanker while Hodgman is on the bench.
Speaking to SUNsports, Uru said this is a crucial match.
“Personally, I know it’s going to be a tough one, coming back home to play against Drua,” he said.
“The Drua is always strong at home, but I’ll be looking forward to the match and I think the boys are going to be up for the challenge.”
The Reds are on a high after their head coach Les Kiss was the named the new Wallabies head coach. The match kicks-off at 2.05pm.
Drua: 1. Peni Ravai, 2. Zuriel Togiatama, 3. Mesake Doge (c), 4. Mesake Vocevoce, 5. Isoa Nasilasila, 6. Etonia Waqa, 7. Isoa Tuwai, 8. Kitione Salawa, 9. Simione Kuruvoli, 10. Kemu Valetini, 11. Taniela Rakuro, 12. Inia Tabuavou, 13. Vuate Karawalevu, 14. Selestino Ravutaumada, 15. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula
Replacements: 16. Tevita Ikanivere, 17. Haereiti Hetet, 18. Samuela Tawake, 19. Leone Rotuisolia, 20. Joseva Tamani, 21. Elia Canakiavata, 22. Philip Baselala, 23. Isikeli Rabitu
Reds: 1. Sef Fa’agase, 2. Richie Asiata, 3. Zane Nonggorr, 4. Ryan Smith, 5. Angus Blyth, 6. Seru Uru, 7. Fraser McReight, 8. Joe Brial, 9. Tate McDermott (c), 10. Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, 11. Tim Ryan, 12. Hunter Paisami, 13. Dre Pakeho, 14. Lachie Anderson, 15. Jock Campbell
Replacements:
16. Max Craig, 17. Alex Hodgman, 18. Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, 19. Josh Canham, 20. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 21. Kalani Thomas, 22. Tom Lynagh, 23. Heremaia Murray.
Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj
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