Nakarawa to captain Flying Fijians against Canada

Leone Nakarawa will captain the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians in their match against Canada in the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup at the ANZ Stadium this Saturday.

Captain's photoshoot [Photo:Fiji Rugby Union]

Coach John McKee says Nakarawa is a leader by example and is one of their most influential players.

 

 

 

 

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📸 Training Gallery Our Fiji Airways Flying Fijians have been hitting game week with full force at Albert Park. Who else can't wait to see our heroes in action 👀👏🙌🏼 Tickets selling fast!, #itsfijistime🇫🇯

A post shared by Official Fiji Rugby Union (@fijirugbyunion) on Jul 31, 2019 at 2:25pm PDT

He says with the captaincy Nakarawa takes some responsibility and it’s really important that he keeps a clear head during game time and has influential words with the players at critical times to ensure they maintain their focus.

Regular Captain, Dominiko Waqaniburotu takes a break after playing three consecutive matches.

Semi Radradra also starts with Jale Vatubua in the centres while Eroni Sau and Josua Tuisova play on the wing.

Kini Murimurivalu is the full‑back.

Experienced props Campese Ma’afu and Peni Ravai start in the front‑row together with Naitasiri Rugby hooker Ratu Veremalua Vugakoto.

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Head Coach John McKee says the boys are fighting fit and ready to unleash some new artillery when they meet Canada this week at the ANZ Stadium.

How good is the Pacific Nations Cup in Suva. Listen for more from John McKee. #itsfijistime pic.twitter.com/Imx43F2Pyy

— Fiji Rugby Union (@fijirugby) July 30, 2019

Tevita Ratuva and Peceli Yato strengthen the pack together with Semi Kunatani and Viliame Mata who retain their places in the run on team.

Henry Seniloli is at half‑back while Josh Matavesi comes in at number 10.

Tevita Cavubati and Nikola Matawalu have been named on the bench and are expected to add more fire power in the last 40 minutes.

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians face Canada at 5.15pm on Saturday at ANZ Stadium in Suva and you catch live commentary on our sister station Viti FM on 92.2FM.

Fiji Airways Flying Fijians Lineup

Campese Ma’afu

Ratu Veremalua Vugakoto

Peni Ravai

Leone Nakarawa (c)

Tevita Ratuva

Peceli Yato

Semi Kunatani

Viliame Mata

Henry Seniloli

Josh Matavesi

Eroni Sau

Jale Vatubua

Semi Radradra

Josua Tuisova

Kini Murimurivalu