Head Coach Mick Byrne has made changes to the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua match day 23 for clash against the Western Force in Lautoka this Saturday, with seasoned halfback Frank Lomani set to mark his 50th Super Rugby Pacific appearance, potentially joined by debutant Waqa Nalaga.
In the starting lineup, Haereiti Hetet remains at loosehead prop, with Tevita Ikanivere as hooker and captain, and Mesake Doge at tighthead. The lock pairing of Mesake Vocevoce and Leone Rotuisolia stays intact, while Kitione Salawa earns a start at openside flanker. Elia Canakaivata returns at number 8.
Lomani partners with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula at halfback and flyhalf respectively. Epeli Momo returns on the left wing alongside Selestino Ravutaumada on the right. Apisalome Vote and Iosefo Masi continue their partnership in the midfield, while Ilaisa Droasese secures the fullback position.
On the bench, Zuriel Togiatama covers hooker, with Livai Natave and Samuela Tawake as props. Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta and Motikiai Murray add depth in the middle and backrow. Simione Kuruvoli backs up at halfback, while Waqa Nalaga is poised for his Super Rugby debut covering the centres. Taniela Rakuro completes the matchday 23.
The Drua vs Western Force men’s match kicks off at 1.05pm FJT at Churchill Park in Lautoka, with the Drua women facing the Western Force women in the Super Rugby W match at 3.35pm.
