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Radradra-less Fiji name strong side to face Ireland
By Ian Cameron
Fiji head coach Mick Byrne has named his matchday squad for Saturday’s Autumn Nations Series fixture against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium.
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The Flying Fijians have had a solid Autumn Nations Series to date. An under-strength side was thrashed 57-17 by Scotland before a far stronger 23 shocked Wales in Cardiff to seal a first-ever win in the Welsh capital on a scoreline of 24-19.
Last weekend Fiji then struggled to a 33-19 victory over Spain in Valladolid, only taking the lead for the first time after 60 minutes at the Estádio José Zorrilla.
They will be without superstar centre Semi Radradra. His Autumn Nations Series ended after receiving a ban for his red card in Fiji’s win over Wales twelve days ago. The 32-year-old – playing on the wing – was initially shown a yellow card for a first-half shoulder-to-head collision with Welsh full-back Cameron Winnett.
The starting XV features Eroni Mawi, Tevita Ikanivere, and Luke Tagi forming a powerful front row. Mesake Vocevoce and Temo Mayanavanua will combine in the second row, while a dynamic back row sees Meli Derenalagi, Kitione Salawa, and Elia Canakaivata lining up.
Frank Lomani and breakout flyhalf Caleb Muntz will direct operations at half-back, with the menacing presence of both Josua Tuisova and Waisea Nayacalevu forming a potent midfield partnership.
Jiuta Wainiqolo, Ponipate Loganimasi, and Vuate Karawalevu complete the back three.
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The bench includes Sam Matavesi, Haereiti Hetet, and block-busting No.8 Albert Tuisue.
Fiji’s full squad to face Ireland:
1. Eroni Mawi
2. Tevita Ikanivere
3. Luke Tagi
4. Mesake Vocevoce
5. Temo Mayanavanua
6. Meli Derenalagi
7. Kitione Salawa
8. Elia Canakaivata
9. Frank Lomani
10. Caleb Muntz
11. Ponipate Loganimasi
12. Josua Tuisova
13. Waisea Nayacalevu
14. Jiuta Wainiqolo
15. Vuate Karawalevu
Replacements:
16. Sam Matavesi
17. Haereiti Hetet
18. Samu Tawake
19. Setareki Turagacoke
20. Albert Tuisue
21. Peni Matawalu
22. Vilimoni Botitu
23. Sireli Maqala