The Skipper Select squad has been officially announced for their eagerly awaited pre-season match against the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua set for next year. This carefully assembled team features some of the most talented players from provincial unions across Fiji, showcasing the competitive spirit and quality of the local rugby talent.
Representatives hail from prominent provincial unions, including Nadroga, Naitasiri, Suva, Malolo, Ba, Macuata, and Tailevu, solidifying the squad as a true national selection. Their aim is to challenge themselves against the established Super Rugby Pacific team, the Drua.
The forwards will be anchored by loosehead props Aisake Atani and Nedley Grant from Nadroga, with Naitasiri’s Seremaia Komailevuka and Suva’s Joeli Nainoca making up the hooker positions. In the tighthead department, Suva’s Inoke Ravuiwasa and Josefa Nasaroa will lend strength, while the locking pair features Michael Ferei from Naitasiri and Nadidi Taginiselala from Suva. The loose forwards include Ba’s Isaia Lotawa and Naitasiri’s Marika Natau on the flanks, supported by Macuata’s Ravuma Tuimacou and Aminiasi Natuniyaga of Malolo at number eight.
In the half-back positions, the squad includes Naitasiri’s Napolioni Batimala and Nadroga’s Meli Buinimasi as halfbacks, with flyhalves Etonia Rokotuisawa from Naitasiri and Anare Tabakaucoro of Tailevu directing the play. The midfield is solidified by inside centres Apimeleki Nasalo from Lautoka and Joseva Tamata of Malolo, alongside outside centre options Sevuloni Lutu from Suva and Esala Nalobo of Malolo.
On the wings, Naitasiri’s Iliesa Bete and Suva’s Onisimo Nawalu will provide speed and skill, while fullback responsibilities will be shared by Douglas Daveta of Malolo and Ponipate Tuberi from Suva. Additionally, utility backs Malikeli Matanisiga from Nadroga, Sakiusa Vosayaco from Nadroga, and Ro Kaveni Seru of Naitasiri add further versatility to the squad.
The challenge against the Drua promises to be a significant opportunity for Skipper Select players to assess their abilities against professional competition. The match is set to delight fans and serve as a showcase of the impressive depth within Fiji’s rugby ranks at Churchill Park. This encounter not only bolsters the skills of local rugby talent but also cultivates a sense of unity and pride among the different provincial unions.