Fiji rugby team lineup against France, Digi Mart USA News: Fiji coach Jack White has unveiled his team to face France, with eleven players from the Top 14 included in the starting selection and substitutes. The announcement was made on Thursday afternoon.
Right prop Luke Tagi (Bayonne), openside flanker Pita-Gus Sowakula (Clermont), number eight Nathan Hughes (Racing 92), scrum-half Simione Kuruvoli (Vannes), wingers Jiuta Wainiqolo (Lyon) and Selestino Ravutaumada (Racing 92), centres Vinaya Habosi (Racing 92) and Iosefo Masi (Lyon), and fullback Salesi Rayasi (UBB) are among the starters. Peceli Yato (Usap) and Sireli Maqala (Bayonne) are on the bench.
Centre Josua Tuisova of Racing 92 is absent from the squad, although he was named in the group for the European tour. His Racing 92 teammate Nathan Hughes will make his international debut for the Flying Fijians against France.
Hughes was born in Lautoka, Fiji, and earned 22 caps for England between 2016 and 2029, according to the report. He is now eligible to change international allegiance and will wear the Fiji jersey against France.
The starting fifteen is: Salesi Rayasi; Selestino Ravutaumada, Iosefo Masi, Vinaya Habosi, Jiuta Wainiqolo; Isikeli Rabitu, Simione Kuruvoli; Kitione Salawa, Nathan Hughes, Pita-Gus Sowakula; Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce; Luke Tagi, Tevita Ikanivere (captain), Eroni Mawi.
Replacements: Zuriel Togiatama, Peni Ravai, Inoke Ravuiwasa, Peceli Yato, Elia Canakaivata, Frank Lomani, Ben Volavola, Sireli Maqala.
