Ex-Hurricanes winger Salesi Rayasi named in 32-man Flying Fijians squad

Former Hurricanes winger Salesi Rayasi has taken another significant step towards Test honours with the Flying Fijians, named in the team’s final 32-man squad ahead of their upcoming matches against the Wallabies and Scotland in July.

Rayasi played for the All Blacks Sevens on what’s now called the HSBC SVNS Series, and proved to be a reliable option on the wing for the Hurricanes as well. The Wellington-born flyer made more than 50 appearances for the Canes before taking up an opportunity offshore.

It was announced 11 months ago, almost to the day, that Rayasi had signed a two-year contract with Top 14 side Vannes. Rayasi started 20 matches for the club during the 2024/25 season, finishing the campaign with a double away to Bayonne.

When the Flying Fijians announced their 44-man extended squad last week, Rayasi’s inclusion captured headlines. Rayasi was one of the uncalled players named in that initial squad, with many eager to see how the winger would fare in the Test arena.

Hawke’s Bay halfback Sam Wye was another uncapped prospect named, and both Wye and Rayasi have made the final squad. Fiji Rugby unveiled the Flying Fijians squad on Wednesday, with the group boasting a mix of experience and new talent.

In the forwards, Tevita Ikanivere headlines an 18-man group which also includes Peni Ravai, Mesake Vocevoce, Elia Canakaivata, Etonia Waqa and Mesake Doge. Ikanivere captained the Flying Fijians to Pacific Nations Cup glory in 2024.

As for the backs, both Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula and Caleb Muntz have been named. Drua rookie Isikeli Rabitu did not make the final squad to play Australia and Scotland, despite having been named in the initial 44-man group last week.

“This extended squad has been selected following thorough discussions and deliberations by the coaching staff and management team,” a statement on Fiji Rugby’s socials reads, which they released after the extended squad was named.

“As is always the case with international selections, the process was challenging due to the depth and quality of talent available globally.

Head-to-Head

Last 4 Meetings

Wins

3

Draws

0

Wins

1

Average Points scored

28

19

First try wins

75%

Home team wins

75%

“Consequently, some high-performing players have unfortunately missed out.”

Former NRL star Semi Radradra was also named in the extended squad but has not been named in the final group for these two Tests.

Fiji will play two matches this July, the first being against Australia at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium on July 6^th. This will be the Wallabies’ final hit out ahead of their highly anticipated three-Test series against the British & Irish Lions.

After that, the Flying Fijians will return home, where they’ll take on Scotland at Suva’s HFC Stadium on July 12.

Flying Fijians 32-man squad

Forwards

Eroni Mawi
Luke Tagi
Haereiti Hetet
Mesake Doge
Peni Ravai
Tevita Ikanivere
Samuel Matavesi
Kavaia Tagivetaua
Isoa Nasilasila
Mesake Vocevoce
Temo Mayanavanua
Setareki Turagacoke
Viliame Mata
Elia Canakaivata
Lekima Tagitagivalu
Albert Tuisue
Etonia Waqa
Motikai Murray

Backs

Simione Kuruvoli
Philip Baselala
Sam Wye
Caleb Muntz
Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula
Vilimoni Botitu
Josua Tuisova
Iosefo Balewairiki
Sireli Maqala
Kalaveti Ravouvou
Ponipate Loganimasi
Jiuta Wainiqolo
Selestino Ravutaumada
Salesi Rayasi