Fiji name heavy hitting team for Georgia

Fiji coach John McKee has named his team for the Pool D match against Georgia at Hanazono Rugby Stadium on Thursday.

Fiji make 11 changes to the XV which started against Uruguay. Only Manasa Saulo, Leone Nakarawa, Dominiko Waqaniburotu and Semi Radradra return.

Thirteen of the XV who started against Australia in their opening RWC 2019 game return for this match. Manasa Saulo – who starts instead of Peni Ravai – and Semi Kunatani, who starts instead of Viliame Mata, are the only differences.

Peceli Yato returns after missing the Uruguay match. Yato had to leave the field during Fiji’s opener against Australia with concussion.

In his 26 minutes on the pitch, he scored a try and made more metres (81) than any other player other than Australia’s Marika Koroibete.

The Clermont Auvergne forward has only started at number eight on two previous occasions in his test career.

McKee said: “You make your own luck and how we perform in this next game will dictate the result. We’re just focusing on getting our preparation right and we feel we can make it happen on Thursday.”

“There is a lot at stake in the game on Thursday and, looking at other results, that may have a bearing on the final pool placings. But it’s not only the playoffs; finishing third in the pool is also important because it gives us automatic qualification for the next World Cup.”

TEAM

1. Campese Ma’afu
2. Samuel Matavesi
3. Manasa Saulo
4. Tevita Cavubati
5. Leone Nakarawa
6. Dominiko Waqaniburotu (capt.)
7. Semi Kunatani
8. Peceli Yato
9. Frank Lomani
10. Ben Volavola
11. Semi Radradra
12. Levani Botia
13. Waisea Nayacalevu
14. Josua Tuisova
15. Kini Murimurivalu

16. Tuvere Vugakoto
17. Eroni Mawi
18. Peni Ravai
19. Apisalome Ratuniyarawa
20. Viliame Mata
21. Nikola Matawalu
22. Jale Vatubua
23. Josh Matavesi

Press conference with Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend and captain Stuart McInally after their 34-0 win over Samoa in the Rugby World Cup group stage.