Jake White swings axe: Fiji superstar's return 1 of 9 changes for Ireland clash

Fiji have rung the changes ahead of Saturday’s Nations Championship clash with Ireland, making nine alterations to the side that were beaten 54-17 by France in Lyon.

New head coach Jake White has retained just six starters from that defeat, with the most notable call seeing back-row powerhouse Peceli Yato handed the captaincy. The former Clermont star only returned to the international fold this year after a three-year absence and will lead the side from No.8 at the Aviva Stadium.

There is also a fairytale storyline of sorts in midfield after 31-year-old Setareki Bituniyata is handed a Test debut.

The former French Pro D2 Player of the Season comes straight into the starting XV and will partner returning superstar Josua Tuisova in the centres. It will be 113 kg centre’s first Test outing since facing Scotland in July.

The changes continue up front too. Peni Ravai replaces Saracens’ Eroni Mawi at loosehead prop while Joseva Tamani comes into the second row. Mesake Vocevoce, who started in the engine room against France, shifts to blindside flanker as White reshuffle the pack.

Yato is joined in the back row by Lekima Tagitagivalu, while former England international Nathan Hughes misses out after suffering an injury on his Fiji debut last weekend.

In the backs, veteran playmaker Ben Volavola is recalled at fly-half and links up with Frank Lomani in a new-look half-back combination. Ponipate Loganimasi replaces the injured Salesi Rayasi at full-back, while dangerous wings Selestino Ravutaumada and Jiuta Wainiqolo are retained.

Fiji Rugby: 15 Ponipate Loganimasi; 14 Selestino Ravutaumada, 13 Setareki Bituniyata, 12 Josua Tuisova, 11 Jiuta Wainiqolo; 10 Ben Volavola, 9 Frank Lomani; 1 Peni Ravai, 2 Tevita Ikanivere, 3 Luke Tagi, 4 Joseva Tamani, 5 Isoa Nasilasila, 6 Mesake Vocevoce, 7 Lekima Tagitagivalu, 8 Peceli Yato (captain).

Replacements: 16 Zuriel Togiatama, 17 Vilikesa Nairau, 18 Inoke Ravuiwasa, 19 Kitione Salawa, 20 Elia Canakaivata, 21 Terio Tamani, 22 Caleb Muntz, 23 Iosefo Masi.