Fiji ring changes for Wales clash
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Fiji has made seven changes to the starting line-up for Sunday’s Test against Wales in Cardiff.
Stand-in coach Gareth Baber said the tourists wanted to build on last week’s 43-13 win over Spain in Madrid.
“We named the team taking into consideration a little bit of continuity from last week and a couple of changes in positions as well,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to seeing them go and we are excited about the prospects and the responsibilities ahead.”
Regular coach Vern Cotter, who was unable to make the tour due to pandemic travel restrictions but is monitoring its progress remotely, said the Fijians were going into the match chasing victory over their highly fancied opponents.
“We should [do] away with the mindset of just competing with these teams but actually playing to beat them,” he said.
“We’re working on the skills and on what we can do to become a more resilient opposition and learn to win.”
He said that involved the Fijians – renowned for their running rugby – improving in the set-piece and learning not to concede unnecessary penalties.
Fiji: 15 Setareki Tuicuvu, 14 Josua Tuisova, 13 Waisea Nayacalevu (captain), 12 Vilimoni Botitu, 11 Eroni Sau, 10 Ben Volavola, 9 Frank Lomani, 8 Viliame Mata, 7 Mesulame Kunavula, 6 Albert Tuisue, 5 Temo Mayanavanua, 4 Api Ratuniyarawa, 3 Mesake Doge, 2 Sam Matavesi, 1 Peni Ravai.
Replacements: Zuriel Togiatama, Eroni Mawi, Leeroy Atalifo, Tevita Ratuva, Masivesi Dakuwaqa, Nikola Matawalu, Apisai Naqalevu, Aminiasi Tuimaba.
Date: Sunday, November 14
Venue: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
Kick-off: 15.15 (15.15 GMT; 03.15 FJT Monday, November 15)
Referee: Nic Berry (Australia)
Assistant referees: Ben O’Keeffe (New Zealand), Gianluca Gnecchi (Italy)
TMO: Stuart Terheege (England)
