John McKee has made seven changes to the Fiji run on team that will play against USA this weekend.
McKee said that his selection was based on the form in matches against France and Wales.
“I have named a very strong team for this match based on form in matches against France and Wales and I am also taking into consideration giving the opportunity to players who did not feature in the first and second matches”.
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Nadroga prop Peni Ravai will start after missing out on the first two matches and will replace suspended Campese Ma’afu, while Tuapati Talemaitoga will replace Sunia Koto at hooker.
“Campese Ma’afu has been suspended for one match following the red card against Wales” McKee said.
Tasman Makos Lock, Tevita Cavubati replaces Api Ratuniyarawa with Skipper Akapusi Qera moved to blindside flank and Malakai Ravulo at openside.
Henry Seniloli gets the nod ahead of Nikola Matawalu and will run in at scrumhalf while Watisoni Votu replaces Waisea Nayacalevu.
France based, Montpellier wing Timoci Nagusa comes on for Metuisela Talebula.
“Following the narrow loss against Wales last weekend it is very important for the team to step up and take on the challenge of the USA Eagles.
“This game will not be easy and the team must be focused to put in a winning performance.”
McKee also confirmed that Jerry Yanuyanutawa was not considered for selection due to injury.
Fiji: 15 Timoci Nagusa, 14 Watisoni Votu, 13 Vereniki Goneva, 12 Nemani Nadolo, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Josh Matavesi, 9 Henry Seniloli, 8 Masi Matadigo, 7 Malakai Ravulo, 6 Akapusi Qera (Captian), 5 Tevita Cavubati, 4 Leone Nakarawa, 3 Manasa Saulo, 2 Tuapati Talemaitoga, 1 Peni Ravai
Replacements: 16 Sunia Koto, 17 Isei Colatei, 18 Tanielo Koroi, 19 Nemia Soqeta, 20 Dominiko Waqaniburotu, 21 Nemia Kenatale, 22 Jonetani Ralulu, 23 Waisea Nayacalevu
Date: Friday 21 November
Venue: Stade De La Rabine, Vannes
Kick-Off: 20:00 SA Time (19:00 France Time, 13:00 EST, 07:00 Saturday Fiji Time)
Referee: Johnny Lacey (Ireland)
Assistant Referees: Peter Fitzgibbon (Ireland), Gary Conway (Ireland)
TMO: Iain Ramage (Scotland)