Seruvakula Names 50-Member Extended Squad for Nations Championship

May 04, 2026
235
Ultimate Rugby

Acting Head Coach Senirusi Seruvakula has named a formidable 50-member extended squad for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians ahead of the upcoming Nations Championship in July, with the final 32-player traveling squad to be confirmed two weeks before the opening match against Wales.

The Flying Fijians will kick off their inaugural Nations Championship campaign against Wales in Cardiff on July 4, before facing England in Liverpool on July 11 and Scotland in Edinburgh on July 18. The competition marks a historic opportunity for Fiji to stamp its place among Tier One nations, competing against the best the Northern Hemisphere has to offer.

The 50-player extended squad, reduced from an initial list of 60, features a powerful blend of experienced internationals and exciting emerging talent. The final selection for the 32-member traveling squad is expected to be fiercely competitive, with players vying for the honour of representing Fiji on one of rugby’s biggest stages.

Seruvakula said the selection process had been rigorous, involving close consultation with his coaching staff, medical team, and lead Strength and Conditioning Coach David Sylvester.

“We’ve been having regular meetings, myself and the coaching staff, and also the lead Strength and Conditioning Coach, David Silvester, and my medical team,” Seruvakula shared.

“We have meetings looking at all the players, their time in their clubs, how many minutes they’ve been playing, and if there are any injuries that need to be identified. All those areas that we look into before we choose the 50.”

The Acting Head Coach confirmed that players will be formally contacted to confirm their availability for the Nations Championship. Those who confirm their availability will be closely monitored before the final squad is announced.

“While this is an extended squad, all players that confirm their availability for July will be monitored before we announce the final 32-man travel squad for the tournament,” said Seruvakula.

The final 32-member squad will be announced two weeks prior to the July 4 clash against Wales. Players from the 50-member extended squad who do not make the final cut will remain on standby as injury replacements.

FIJI Water Flying Fijians – 50-Member Extended Squad:

Props

Eroni Mawi, Atunaisa Sokobale, Peni Ravai, Livai Natave, Haereiti Hetet, Luke Tagi, Tim Hoyt, Vilikesa Nairau, Mesake Doge

Hookers

Tevita Ikanivere, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Zuriel Togiatama, Sam Matavesi

Locks

Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Albert Tuisue, Temo Mayanavanua, Tevita Ratuva, Joseva Tamani

Flankers

Lekima Tagitagivalu, Etonia Waqa, Isoa Tuwai, Elia Canakaivata, Levani Botia, Kitione Salawa

No. 8

Pita-Gus Sowakula, Peceli Yato and Nathan Hughes

Half-back