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Radradra-less Fiji name strong side to face Ireland

Wales' centre Ben Thomas (L) tackles Fiji's centre Josua Tuisova (R) during the Autumn Nations Series International rugby union test match between Wales and Fiji at the Principality Stadium, in Cardiff on November 10, 2024. (Photo by Adrian Dennis / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE -use in books subject to Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) approval (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Fiji head coach Mick Byrne has named his matchday squad for Saturday’s Autumn Nations Series fixture against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium.

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The Flying Fijians have had a solid Autumn Nations Series to date. An under-strength side was thrashed 57-17 by Scotland before a far stronger 23 shocked Wales in Cardiff to seal a first-ever win in the Welsh capital on a scoreline of 24-19.

Last weekend Fiji then struggled to a 33-19 victory over Spain in Valladolid, only taking the lead for the first time after 60 minutes at the Estádio José Zorrilla.

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They will be without superstar centre Semi Radradra. His Autumn Nations Series ended after receiving a ban for his red card in Fiji’s win over Wales twelve days ago. The 32-year-old – playing on the wing – was initially shown a yellow card for a first-half shoulder-to-head collision with Welsh full-back Cameron Winnett.

The starting XV features Eroni Mawi, Tevita Ikanivere, and Luke Tagi forming a powerful front row. Mesake Vocevoce and Temo Mayanavanua will combine in the second row, while a dynamic back row sees Meli Derenalagi, Kitione Salawa, and Elia Canakaivata lining up.

Fixture
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Ireland
52 - 17
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Fiji
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Frank Lomani and breakout flyhalf Caleb Muntz will direct operations at half-back, with the menacing presence of both Josua Tuisova and Waisea Nayacalevu forming a potent midfield partnership.

Jiuta Wainiqolo, Ponipate Loganimasi, and Vuate Karawalevu complete the back three.

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The bench includes Sam Matavesi, Haereiti Hetet, and block-busting No.8 Albert Tuisue.

Fiji’s full squad to face Ireland:
1. Eroni Mawi
2. Tevita Ikanivere
3. Luke Tagi
4. Mesake Vocevoce
5. Temo Mayanavanua
6. Meli Derenalagi
7. Kitione Salawa
8. Elia Canakaivata
9. Frank Lomani
10. Caleb Muntz
11. Ponipate Loganimasi
12. Josua Tuisova
13. Waisea Nayacalevu
14. Jiuta Wainiqolo
15. Vuate Karawalevu

Replacements:
16. Sam Matavesi
17. Haereiti Hetet
18. Samu Tawake
19. Setareki Turagacoke
20. Albert Tuisue
21. Peni Matawalu
22. Vilimoni Botitu
23. Sireli Maqala

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Another 7 hours ago
Razor's 2024 All Blacks Christmas wish list

"It seems like the idea of Ardie Savea moving to openside flanker is no longer on the table"


Says who? Savea was picked on the open side, with Wallace Sititi at 8, against France. It makes no difference to Savea’s game, whatsoever and allows Sititi to play in his preferred position. It also provides an option to bring in a third loose forward that may provide a better lineout option and a big body to compete with some of the big bodies found in other teams.


It was unfortunate that Finau was injured so early on against France before he had a chance to show how he might combine with Savea and Sititi, and there is still a possibility that Hoskins Sotutu might be effective alongside them too.


Don’t count out viable options.

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