Jake White makes trio of bold selections in Fiji team to play France

The Jake White era is underway in Fiji, and for the coach’s first Test during the international window, he has made some big calls with the talent that has become available to him.

A host of Top 14 stars have returned to the starting line-up, with just four starters continuing from the 34-28 win over Japan that opened White’s account as head coach: Tevita Ikanivere, Mesake Vocevoce, Isoa Nasilasila and Kitione Salawa.

Eroni Mawi and Luke Tagi join their captain, Ikanivere, in the front row, while Pita-Gus Sowakula and former England representative Nathan Hughes start alongside Salawa in the back row. The match will be 35-year-old Hughes’ first for his country of birth.

Simione Kuruvoli will start at halfback, and young Isikeli Rabitu has been backed for his first start at 10 in a Fiji jersey. Vinaya Habosi will make a rare appearance at inside centre, partnering Iosefo Masi in the midfield. The electric outside back trio of Jiuta Wainiqolo, Selestino Ravutaumada and Salesi Rayasi complete the starting XV.

There is plenty of experience on the bench, with the likes of Peni Ravai and Ben Volavola in the mix. There is no room for Josua Tuisova or Caleb Muntz, while the selections of Hughes, Rabitu and Habosi also hint at the new head coach’s selection plans.

With nine of White’s starting XV plying their trade in France, the Parc Olympique showdown has a heavy Top 14 flavour as it concludes a busy Saturday night in the Nations Championship.

Team Form

Last 5 Games

15 - 42

26 - 42

34 - 32

48 - 46

50 - 40

28 - 34

20 - 15

45 - 29

17 - 33

8 - 73

3

Wins

2

2

Streak

1

28

Tries Scored

17

33

Points Difference

-64

3/5

First Try

0/5

4/5

First Points

1/5

5/5

Race To 10 Points

1/5

Fiji team to play France

1. Eroni Mawi
2. Tevita Ikanivere (C)
3. Luke Tagi
4. Mesake Vocevoce
5. Isoa Nasilasila
6. Pita-Gus Sowakula
7. Kitione Salawa
8. Nathan Hughes
9. Simione Kuruvoli
10. Isikeli Rabitu
11. Jiuta Wainiqolo
12. Vinaya Habosi
13. Iosefo Masi
14. Selestino Ravutaumada
15. Salesi Rayasi

Reserves

16. Zuriel Togiatama
17. Peni Ravai
18. Inoke Ravuiwasa
19. Peceli Yato
20. Elia Canakaivata
21. Frank Lomani
22. Ben Volavola
23. Sireli Maqala