Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women coach Mosese Rauluni has named the experienced Karalaini Naisewa as captain of his match-day 23 squad which includes two newbies for their opening Super W match against the Reds this Sunday.
Naisewa who is originally from Nadroga with maternal links to Naitasiri and has been part of the Super W outfit since their inaugural season in 2022 will slot in at the base of the scrum.
Unaisi Lalabalavu starts at hooker in her first appearance in the Drua jersey whilst Merewairita Neivosa starts on the right wing. Six others are on course to make their debut, off the bench, being Loraini Senivutu (hooker), Salanieta Nabuli (front row impact), Tiana Robanakadavu (front row impact), Aviame Veidreyaki (locks and backrow), Merewai Nasilasila (locks and backrow) and Atelaite Ralivanawa (wing).
The Fijian Drua Women are the reigning champions, and the only other team in the competition alongside the Waratahs to have won the competition back-to-back.
Fijian Drua Women (1-15): Anaseimeci Korovata, Unaisi Lalabalavu*, Mereoni Vonosere , Mereoni Nakesa, Jade Coates, Teresia Tinanivalu, Sulita Waisega , Karalaini Naisewa (C) , Evivi Senikarivi, Merewalesi Rokouono, Adita Milinia, Merewai Cumu, Vani Arei, Merewairita Neivosa *, Luisa Tisolo
Impact
16. Loraini Senivutu**, 17. Salanieta Nabuli**, 18. Tiana Robanakadavu**, 19. Aviame Veidreyaki**, 20. Merewai Nasilasila**, 21. Setaita Railumu, 22. Jeniffer Ravutia , 23.Atelaite Buna**
*Debut
**Potential Debut
Caption: Naisewa (far left) with Vani Arei and Asinate Serevi during a Super W match in 2023
