McKee names side for Maori All Blacks

Vodafone Flying Fijians head coach John McKee has named a strong side to take on the Maori All Blacks this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium.

Nine of the 23 players are based in France.

McKee says he is expecting an open and fast moving game with both teams prepared to play a running game.

In the forwards, the front row is made up of  Campese Ma'afu, Tuapati Taleimaitoga and Manasa Saulo.

Api Ratuniyarawa and Leone Nakarawa make up the locking pair, Dominiko Waqaniburotu and Malakai Ravulo named at open and blindside flankers respectively while Akapusi Qera will be at number 8 and also the captain.

Nemia Kenatale will be the starting half back with Josh Matavesi at first five eight.

Nemani Nadolo will be on the left wing.

Gabby Lovobalavu returns to the Flying Fijians starting line up after a lapse of five years and will be running out at inside centre with Vereniki Goneva at centre, Benedito Masilevu gets his starting test debut on the right wing and Kini Murimurivalu is at full back.

Uncapped fly half Ben Volavola, who has signed for the Crusaders from the Waratahs, could make his debut after being named on a strong bench alongside Masi Matadigo, Nikola Matawalu and Napolioni Nalaga.

The Vodafone Flying Fijians will host the Maori All Blacks at 3pm this Saturday at the ANZ Stadium and your can catch the live commentaries on Viti FM.

Flying Fijians squad:

15 Kini Murimurivalu, 14 Benito Masilevu, 13 Vereniki Goneva, 12 Gabby Lovobalavu, 11 Nemani Nadolo, 10 Josh Matavesi, 9 Nemia Kenatale, 8 Akapusi Qera (c), 7 Malakai Ravulo, 6 Dominiko Waqaniburotu, 5 Leone Nakarawa, 4 Api Ratuniyarawa, 3 Manasa Saulo, 2 Tuapati Talemaitoga, 1 Campese Ma'afu.

Replacements: 16 Villiame Veikoso, 17 Peni Ravai, 18 Isei Calati, 19 Nemia Soqeta, 20 Masi Matadigo, 21 Nikola Matawalu, 22 Ben Volavola, 23 Napolioni Nalaga.