Giant Nadolo starts for Fiji

 

Meanwhile, the Ospreys’ contingent in Warren Gatland’s Wales selection will come up against a familiar foe in the form of Josh Matavesi, who has been named at flyhalf for the opposition. 

 

It will be Matavesi’s seventh international cap but his first for almost exactly two years, his last international appearance coming at Twickenham in November 2012 when he came off the bench against England.

 

The 24-year old missed Fiji’s defeat to France last Saturday due to a shoulder injury.

 

Lepani Botia, who could not travel because of family issues, has been replaced by Nadolo while Leicester Tigers wing Vereniki Goneva will start at outside centre after missing the 40-15 defeat to France because of visa issues.

 

Asaeli Tikoirotuma and Waisale Nayacalevu have been named on the wings.

 

Former Cardiff Blues prop Campese Ma’afu is named in the pack.

 

Skipper Akapusi Qera has retained his position at flank.

 

“I am very happy with the squad I have been able to name for this match,” said coach John McKee.

 

“The return of Goneva to the team and Nadolo to the starting lineup adds strength and experience to our backline.

 

“Josh Matavesi, who unfortunately was unavailable for the French match due to injury, will be looking to make his mark in the playmaker position in this important match, less than 12 months from when these two teams play at the same venue at the World Cup.”

 

 

Fiji: 15 Metuisela Talebula, 14 Waisale Nayacalevu, 13 Vereniki Gonevam, 12 Nemani Nadolo, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Josh Matavesi, 9 Nicola Matawalu, 8 Masi Matadigo, 7 Akapusi Qera (captain), 6 Dominiko Waqaniburotu, 5 Api Ratuniyarawa, 4 Leone Nakarawa, 3 Manasa Saulo, 2 Sunia Koto, 1 Campese Ma’afu.

Replacements: 16 Tuapati Talemaitoga, 17 Jerry Yanuyanutwa, 18 Isei Colati, 19 Tevita Cavubati, 20 Malakai Ravulo, 21 Henry Seniloli, 22 Jonetani Ralulu, 23 Timoci Nagusa. 

 

Date: Saturday, November 15

Venue: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

Kick-off: 14.30 (14.30 GMT; 03.30 FJST Sunday)

Referee: Pascal Gauzère (France)

Assistant referees: Jaco Peyper (South Africa), Dudley Phillips (Ireland)

TMO: Carlo Damasco (Italy)