Fiji bring in blockbusting Toulon wing for France Test
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Fiji coach John McKee named a side Thursday he said was capable of springing an upset win over France in Paris this weekend.
The Pacific islanders have a 0-9 losing record against Les Bleus but McKee said Fiji were confident after demolishing Uruguay 68-7 last week.
While praising the efforts of the players that beat Uruguay, McKee has largely reverted to his first-choice side, which lost 17-54 to Scotland earlier this month.
“There were some hard questions posed around selection this week and the team to run on the field is the team we believe will beat France,” the New Zealander said.
The introduction of blockbusting Toulon wing Josua Tuisova is the only change to the starting side that faced Scotland, with Metui Talebula moving to fullback to make room.
McKee said the Fijians, renowned for their lightning attack, would need to hone their defensive qualities to counter the French maul.
“Our players are very aware of the strengths and weakness of the French players as they play against them in Top 14 and European Cup matches,” he said.
Fiji: 15 Metuisela Talebula, 14 Josua Tuisova, 13 Semi Radradra, 12 Jale Vatubua, 11 Vereniki Goneva, 10 Ben Volavola, 9 Frank Lomani, 8 Viliame Mata, 7 Peceli Yato, 6 Dominiko Waqaniburotu (captain), 5 Leone Nakarawa, 4 Tevita Cavubati, 3 Manasa Saulo, 2 Sam Matavesi, 1 Campese Maafu.
Replacements: 16 Mesulame Dolokoto, 17 Eroni Mawi, 18 Kalivati Tawake, 19 Albert Tuisue, 20 Semi Kunatani, 21 Henry Seniloli, 22 Alivereti Veitokani, 23 Eroni Sau.
Date: Saturday, November 24
Venue: Stade de France, Paris
Kick-off: 21.05 (20.00 GMT; 09.05 Fiji time Sunday, November 25)
Referee: Matthew Carley (England)
Assistant referees: Tom Foley (England), Shuhei Kubo (Japan)
TMO: Rowan Kitt (England)
Agence France-Presse
