Sports

Locals dominate PNC squad

May 18, 2012 3:42 am

Flying Fijians coach, Inoke Male has named his 32-member squad for the Pacific Nations Cup next month.

From the 32 chosen, 22 are locally-based with the remaining 10 being called up from abroad.

Male has retained the bulk of his Fiji Warriors team who had an outstanding performance in the Pacific Rugby Series in Australia and New Zealand.

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Skipper, Netani Talei who currently plays for Edinburgh in Scotland is expected to join the squad later this month.

So too is ACT Brumbies prop, Jerry Yanuyanutawa.

16 players could make their debut in the 2012 PNC which will be hosted in Japan in June.

These include Japan-based forward, Api Naikatini, New Zealand and North Harbour rep, Niko Ratumaitavuki and French-based player, Alusio Buto.

Fiji 7s reps from the London tournament, Isake Katonibau, Metuislea Talebula and Joeli Lutumailagi have also been selected.

Fiji 2012 PNC Squad:
Props: Graham Dewes (NZ), Jerry Yanuyanutawa (Australia), Waisea Daveta (Naitasiri), Setefano Somoca (Nadroga)

Hooker: Seremaia Naureure (Nadroga), Viliame Veikoso (Suva), Tuapati Talemaitoga (NZ)

Locks: Leone Nakarawa (Tailevu), Iliesa Ratuva (Nadroga), Sekonaia Kalou (Nadroga), Apisai Naikatini (Japan), Josefa Domolailai (France/Flanker)

Flanker: Malakai Ravulo (NZ), Apakuki Vuaviri (Lautoka), Malakai Volau (Suva)
No.8: Kelepi Ketedromo (Nadi), Netani Talei (Scotland)

Halfback: Nemia Kenatale (NZ), Nikola Matawalu (Suva), Kelemedi Bola (Lautoka)

Flyhalf: Setareki Koroilagilagi (Lautoka), Niko Ratumaitavuki (NZ)
Inside Centre: Benedito Koroi (Lautoka), Iliesa Salusalu (Lautoka); Isake Katonibau (Tailevu)

Outside Centre: Joeli Lutumailagi (Nadroga), Alusio Buto (France)
Wing: Watisoni Votu (Lautoka), Kameli Ratuvou (England), Maikeli Mocetadra (Suva).

Fullback: Isimeli Koniferedi (Nadroga) and Metuisela Talebula (Lautoka)