The Skipper Select squad has been officially named for their highly anticipated pre-season clash against the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua scheduled for next year. This meticulously selected team brings together some of the finest players from various provincial unions across Fiji, highlighting the competitive nature and caliber of local rugby talent.
Players from leading provincial unions including Nadroga, Naitasiri, Suva, Malolo, Ba, Macuata, and Tailevu have been chosen, showcasing the squad as a genuine representation of national talent. Their goal is to test their skills against the well-established Super Rugby Pacific team, the Drua.
The forward pack will feature loosehead props Aisake Atani and Nedley Grant from Nadroga, complemented by Naitasiri’s Seremaia Komailevuka and Suva’s Joeli Nainoca in the hooker roles. In the tighthead positions, Suva’s Inoke Ravuiwasa and Josefa Nasaroa will provide additional strength, while the locking duo will consist of Michael Ferei from Naitasiri and Nadidi Taginiselala from Suva. The loose forwards are set with Ba’s Isaia Lotawa and Naitasiri’s Marika Natau on the flanks, supported by Macuata’s Ravuma Tuimacou and Aminiasi Natuniyaga from Malolo at number eight.
In terms of half-backs, Naitasiri’s Napolioni Batimala and Nadroga’s Meli Buinimasi will take on the role, with flyhalves Etonia Rokotuisawa from Naitasiri and Anare Tabakaucoro of Tailevu orchestrating the attack. The midfield features inside centres Apimeleki Nasalo from Lautoka and Joseva Tamata of Malolo, along with outside centre options Sevuloni Lutu from Suva and Esala Nalobo of Malolo.
Speed and skill will be showcased on the wings by Naitasiri’s Iliesa Bete and Suva’s Onisimo Nawalu, while fullback duties will be shared between Douglas Daveta of Malolo and Ponipate Tuberi from Suva. Additionally, utility backs Malikeli Matanisiga from Nadroga, Sakiusa Vosayaco also from Nadroga, and Ro Kaveni Seru of Naitasiri will add further depth and adaptability to the squad.
This match against the Drua represents a critical opportunity for the Skipper Select players to gauge their skills against professional competition. Taking place at Churchill Park, the encounter is expected to captivate fans while serving as a testament to the impressive depth of talent within Fiji’s rugby community. Beyond enhancing local rugby skills, this event fosters unity and pride among the various provincial unions, making it a significant occasion in the Fijian rugby calendar.