Cotter names five debutants for Fiji

Vodafone Flying Fijians head coach Vern Cotter named five debutants in the run-on team which faces a high-profile Tongan outfit, injecting a mixture of young and experienced players. Haereiti Hetet, Tevita Ikanivere and Manasa Saulo will anchor the scrum. Isoa Nasilasila will pair Tevita Ratuva as locks, while Mesulame Kunavula, Rusiate Nasove and Albert Tuisue complete the forward pack.

Frank Lomani, Teti Tela, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Waisea Nayacalevu, Vinaya Habosi, Jiuta Wainiqolo and Setareki Tuicuvu will add speed, power and physicality in the backline. The likes of Sam Matavesi, Eroni Mawi, Luke Tagi, Api Ratuniyarawa, Kitione Kamikamica, Peni Matawalu, Seta Tamanivalu and Manasa Mataele are expected to add firepower and energy from the bench. Fans are expecting a strong performance from the Tongan side who will hope to create an upset.

Traditionally, the Fiji vs Tonga battles had been physical, so Fiji will have to be ready for that confrontation and aggressive nature.

Our boys will have to execute the game plan smartly, create opportunities, and be accurate, calm and composed. On the other hand, ex-Wallaby, Israel Folau, will make his debut for Tonga against Fiji, ending a four-year Test rugby exile. He was named on the right wing.

Former All Blacks Charles Piutau and Malakai Fekitoa will bolster Tonga’s ranks as the tiny Pacific kingdom seeks to win the tournament for the first time in its 15-year history.

Coach Toutai Kefu has also roped in the likes of Sioate Tokolahi, Solomone Funaki, Sione Tu’ipulotu, Sonatane