Lomani returns from suspension for the Drua against the Rebels

Swire Shipping Fijian Drua halfback Frank Lomani will make his return from his 6-weeks suspension after he was named to start at halfback in the Drua’s do-or-die clash against the Melbourne Rebels in the last round this weekend.

Lomani was suspended for 6 weeks after he elbowed Rebels’ lock Josh Canham in round 7 of this year’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific Competition.

Also making his return to the starting lineup is captain Ratu Meli Derenalagi who will start at number 8 this weekend.

In the front row, Haereiti Hetet will pair up with Mesake Doge at prop and Tevita Ikanivere retains his spot at hooker.

Mesake Vocevoce and Ratu Leone Rotuisolia will be at locks while Etonia Waqa will partner up again with Kitione Salawa on the flanks.

Lomani will form the halves combination with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula who will start at flyhalf, young Waqa Nalaga gets his second start of the season, this time on the wing and will pair up with Selestino Ravutaumada who will start on the right wing.

Kemueli Valetini will start at inside centre again this week and Iosefo Masi will be at outside centre with Ilaisa Droasese retaining his spot at fullback.

Coach Mick Byrne has opted for a 6 forwards and 2 backs reserve formation with the likes of Zuriel Togiatama, Livai Natave, Samuela Tawake, Isoa Nasilasila Elia Canakaivata, Simione Kuruvoli and Caleb Muntz.

The Drua will take on the Rebels at 2.05pm this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka in the last round of the competition. In other matches this week, the Crusaders will play Moana Pasifika at 7.05pm Friday, the Waratahs host the Reds at 9.35pm Friday, the Hurricanes will take on the Highlanders at 4.35pm Saturday, the Blues will play the Chiefs at 7.05pm Saturday and the Force will host the Brumbies at 9.35pm Saturday.