Fiji recall hero of historic England win as they plot another upset

Fiji have recalled fly-half Caleb Muntz to face England on Saturday in the Nations Championship after missing the opening round defeat to Wales.

The 26-year-old, who steered Fiji to victory over England at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium in August 2023, is one of several changes made to the team after their 39-24 loss in Cardiff.

The Provence playmaker started against England in November, scoring a try as Steve Borthwick’s side were victorious. He will reunite with six of the seven backline members that ran out in London in the autumn, with the only change being on the right wing, where Vuate Karawalevu will start instead of Selestino Ravutaumada at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool.

In the pack, loosehead Eroni Mawi, captain and hooker Tevita Ikanivere and lock Isoa Nasilasila are the only three members to retain their place in the starting XV from last week, while superstars Jiuta Wainiqolo, Josua Tuisova and Salesi Rayasi are the only three to remain in the pack.

Following injuries to outside centre Semi Radradra and tighthead prop Tim Hoyt against Wales, some of these changes are enforced by Senirusi Seruvakula, however, the majority of the changes are tactical.

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The back-row will also welcome Levani Botia back to the Test scene following a two-year absence. Despite now being the age of 37, Botia has remained one of the premier loose forwards in the Top 14 with La Rochelle, and will pack down at No.8 in Liverpool.

Fiji XV: 15 Salesi Rayasi, 14 Vuate Karawalevu, 13 Kalaveti Ravouvou, 12 Josua Tuisova, 11 Juta Wainiqolo, 10 Caleb Muntz, 9 Simione Kuruvoli; 1 Eroni Mawi, 2 Tevita Khanivere (c), 3 Mesake Doge, 4 Tevita Ratuva, 5 Isoa Nasilasila, 6 Peceli Yato, 7 Lekima Tagitagivalu, 8 Levani Botia
Replacements: 16 Sam Matavesi, 17 Livai Natave, 18 Peni Ravai, 19 Temo Mayanavanua, 20 Elia Canakaivata, 21 Pita Gus Sowakula, 22 Frank Lomani, 23 Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula