Rugby

Naitokani set for Drua debut

March 30, 2023 2:19 pm

Michael Nakotani (Left) Emosi Tuqiri ( Right)

Nadroga inside center Michael Naitokani is set to make his Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific debut for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua.

Naitokani has been named by Head Coach Mick Byrne on the bench for the side to face Melbourne Rebels on Saturday.

Returning to the match day 23 this week are Eroni Sau, Ilaisa Droasese, Jone Tiko, and Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta.

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Emosi Tuqiri starts this week at loosehead prop with Jone Tiko at tighthead and Tevita Ikanivere at hooker.

Isoa Nasilasila will partner ‘Big T’ Cirikidaveta in the second row while Vilive Miramira gets his first start at blindside flanker, with Kitione Salawa at seven and captain Meli Derenalagi at number eight.

Frank Lomani and Teti Tela will again run the show, Sau will be on the left wing and Selestino Ravutaumada is back in the 14 jersey.

Kalaveti Ravouvou and Iosefo Masi are the midfield pair with Droasese at fullback.

The Drua faces the Rebels at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva at 3.35pm on Saturday.

You can watch the LIVE on the FBC Sports channel.