The ‘big emphasis’ for Flying Fijians ahead of Pacific Nations Cup Final

TOKYO: Scrum-half Sam Wye has highlighted the “big emphasis” this week for the Flying Fijians, who are looking to once again defend their Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup title. They will play Japan’s Brave Blossoms in the PNC Final in Tokyo on Saturday evening.

Fiji got off to a dream start in their PNC semi-final 45-29 win over Canada in Osaka, with blindside flanker Kitione Salawa scoring just 21 seconds into the match. Frank Lomani would add to the defending champion’s lead about four minutes later.

But Canada clawed their way back into the contest before the break with two tries of their own, before the Flying Fijians again raced out to a commanding lead in the second term. Fiji conceded two cards late but ultimately did enough to remain in the title race.

The Flying Fijians will since turned their attention towards another PNC decider against the Brave Blossoms, who are coming off a convincing 63-14 win against the USA Eagles. Japan raced out to a 28-0 lead after just 16 minutes, which set them on the path to victory.

Fiji have returned to Tokyo ahead of the match at Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium, taking some key lessons out of the Canada Test. The Flying Fijians against Brave Blossoms match will kick off just after 7:00 pm local time on Saturday.

“Just finished another great session back here in Tokyo. The atmosphere and the vibe in the camp has been pretty good,” Wye said in a video on Fiji Rugby’s Facebook page.

“We’ve taken our learnings from last week and we’re to put our best foot forward this week. Big emphasis this week on finishing strong.

“We know the threats that Japan poses and we’re looking to improve on last week and put our best foot forward this week.

“Just want to thank the people of Fiji for the support, and to our friends and families for the support.”

Fiji Rugby confirmed a squad update on Tuesday, with former All Blacks centre and two-time Super Rugby winner Seta Tamanivalu joining the group in Japan. Tamanivalu last played for the Flying Fijians during the 2025 edition of the PNC.

Tamanivalu has been called into the squad after a tournament-ending injury to Kalaveti Ravouvou, who started at inside centre against Canada, but was replaced during the second half by Tuidraki Samusamuvodre about 55 minutes in.

“Update from the FIJI Water Flying Fijians,” the post reads.

“Kalaveti Ravouvou has been ruled out due to injury and will b replaced by Seta Tamanivalu.

“Wishing Ravouvou a smooth and speedy recovery, and all the best to Seta as he joins the squad.”