Fijian Drua make six changes to starting XV after rare home loss

Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has made some changes for his side’s round 2 clash with the Waratahs in Sydney.

An exciting newcomer for the Drua has been named on the bench, with Fiji U20 product Kavaia Tagivetaua earning his first minutes in Super Rugby off the bench.

The match will also see a change in the starting halves partnership, with co-captain Frank Lomani linking up with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula. Manasa Mataele dropsto the bench for Taniela Rakuro.

Motikiai Murray and Joseva Tamanu replace Kitione Salawa and Mesake Vocevoce on the sides of the scrum, and Inia Tabuavou is promoted from the bench to start at 12 in the absence of Virimi Vakatawa.

The Drua suffered a rare home defeat in round 1 and will be eager to strike back in Sydney, where the Waratahs were so successful in 2025.

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

3

Draws

0

Wins

2

Average Points scored

31

25

First try wins

60%

Home team wins

80%

Fijian Drua team to play the Waratahs

1. Haereiti Hetet
2. Zuriel Togiatama
3. Mesake Doge
4. Isoa Nasilasila
5. Temo Mayanavanua (c-c)
6. Joseva Tamani
7. Motikiai Murray
8. Elia Canakaivata
9. Frank Lomani (c-c)
10. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula
11. Taniela Rakuro
12. Isikeli Rabitu
13. Tuidraki Samusamuvodre
14. Ponipate Loganimasi
15. Ilaisa Droasese

16. Kavaia Tagivetaua*
17. Peni Ravai
18. Samuela Tawake
19. Mesake Vocevoce
20. Kitione Salawa
21. Issak Fines-Leleiwasa
22. Inia Tabuavou
23. Manasa Mataele

Injury list

Mesulame Dolokoto – Knee
Meli Tuni – Knee
Simione Kuruvoli – Shoulder
Aisea Nawai – Leg