Fijian Drua team to face Western Force

Isikeli Basiyalo will make his Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific debut against the Western Force in Lautoka this Saturday. Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Head Coach Glen Jackson named the young flyer on the right wing as the side takes on the high flying Force in their Round 9 clash. A homegrown talent, Basiyalo is a product of Fiji School Boys, Fiji U20s and the Drua Development system. The Volivoli, Nadroga village native with sharing maternal links to Nabukelevu-i-Ra, Kadavu has been a consistent performer for Nadroga in the local provincial competition and was part of the Fiji Warriors in 2023. He also made his debut for the Fiji Airways Fijian Sevens side at the 2025 Hong Kong 7s. This week’s matchday 23 is further boosted by the return of Flying Fijians halfback Simione Kuruvoli, who will make his first appearance of the season after recovering from injury. Co-captain Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Motikiai Murray and Isikeli Rabitu have also returned to the line-up. In the starting 15, Haereiti Hetet (1) starts at loosehead prop with Mesake Doge (3) at tighthead and Zuriel Togiatama (2) at hooker. Co-captain Isoa Nasilasila (4) will start at lock partnering Joseva Tamani (5) in the middle row. Loose forward Kitione Salawa (6) starts at blindside flanker position with Motikiai Murray (7) to start at openside. Elia Canakaivata (8) retains his place at number 8 loose forward.