Vocevoce to start while Junior Ratuva expected to debut against Moana Pasika

Former Sangam Sadhu Kuppuswamy Memorial College student and former Fiji Under 20 rep, Mesake Vocevoce will start at lock in the only change made to the starting lineup for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua against Moana Pasifika in this week’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific Super Round.

Head Coach Mick Byrne has maintained the front row combination with Livai Natave starting at loosehead prop, Tevita Ikanivere at hooker, and Mesake Doge at tighthead.

Vocevoce will partner with Isoa Nasilasila at locks while Etonia Waqa remains at flanker with Elia Canakaivata, and captain Meli Derenalagi starts at number 8.

Frank Lomani will once again combine with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula at the halves, while Apisalome Vota starts the match at inside centre and Iosefo Masi outside him.

Selestino Ravutaumada and Epeli Momo are on the wings, and Isikeli Rabitu is at fullback.

Junior Ratuva, who was in the French Pro D2 and with Melbourne Storm and New Zealand Warriors, is expected to make his debut from the bench.

The Drua will take on Moana Pasifika at 6pm Saturday.

Looking at other matches, the Highlanders take on the Blues at 7pm Friday, the Rebels will play the Force at 9.10pm Friday, the Crusaders will play the Waratahs at 8.35pm Saturday, the Chiefs will play the Brumbies at 3pm Sunday, and the Hurricanes will play the Reds at 5.30pm Sunday.

Drua line-up against Moana Pasika

1. Livai Natave 2. Tevita Ikanivere 3. Mesake Doge 4. Mesake Vocevoce 5. Isoa Nasilasila 6. Etonia Waqa 7. Elia Canakaivata 8. Meli Derenalagi (c) 9. Frank Lomani 10. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula 11. Selestino Ravutaumada 12. Apisalome Vota 13. Iosefo Masi 14. Epeli Momo 15. Isikeli Rabitu

Impact 16. Mesulame Dolokoto 17. Haereiti Hetet 18. Jone Koroiduadua 19. Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta 20. Vilive Miramira 21. Simione Kuruvoli 22. Kemu Valetini 23. Junior Ratuva