Tuisova returns in exciting Fiji team to face Ireland

The Flying Fijians have pace and power as they get set for Saturday in Dublin.

FIJI BOSS JAKE White has welcomed star centre Josua Tuisova back into his team for Saturday’s Nations Championship clash with Ireland.

The Racing 92 powerhouse is among the changes White has made to his starting XV for the clash at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

The experienced Ben Volavola comes into the side at out-half, Frank Lomani of the Fijian Drua starts at scrum-half, and Perpignan back row Peceli Yato is introduced at number eight and will captain the team. Racing openside Lekima Tagitagivalu is another fresh face.

Back rows Nathan Hughes, who made his Fiji debut in last weekend’s loss to France, and Pita Gus Sowakula have been ruled out due to injury, as has Bordeaux fullback Salesi Rayasi, who is replaced by Sale Sharks flyer Ponepati Loganimasi.

There’s a debut at outside centre for 31-year-old Setareki Bituniyata, who plays in the French Pro D2 with Provence, while new Highlanders signing Joseva Tamani is brought into the second row.

Fiji (v Ireland):

15. Ponepati Loganimasi (Sale Sharks)
14. Selestino Ravutaumada (Racing 92)
13. Setareki Bituniyata (Provence)
12. Josua Tuisova (Racing 92)
11. Jiuta Wainiqolo (Lyon)
10. Ben Volavola (Fijian Drua)
9. Frank Lomani (Fijian Drua)

1. Peni Ravai (Fijian Drua)
2. Tevita Ikanivere (Honda Heat)
3. Luke Tagi (Bayonne)
4. Joseva Tamani (Highlanders)
5. Isoa Nasilasila (JR East Green Warriors)
6. Mesake Vocevoce (Fijian Drua)
7. Lekima Tagitagivalu (Racing 92)
8. Peceli Yato (Perpignan) (captain)

Replacements:

16. Zuriel Togiatama (Newcastle)
17. Vilikesa Nairau (Saracens)
18. Inoke Ravuiwasa (Fijian Drua)
19. Kitione Salawa (Fijian Drua)
20. Elia Canakaivata (Sale Sharks)
21. Terio Tamani (Kadavu)
22. Caleb Muntz (Provence)
23. Iosefo Masi (Lyon)

Referee: Angus Gardner [RA].