Three debutants for Wallabies clash

Three players will make their debut when the Vodafone Flying Fijians will take on the Wallabies in Melbourne tomorrow.

Pau (Section Paloise) based Jale Vatubua, Pro 12 Edinburgh player and Olympian Viliame Mata and local based Kalivati Tawake have been included in the match day squad.

Coach John McKee says he has selected a very strong and experienced team which he believes will be able to match the Australians and he congratulated the three debutants in the team.

“My congratulations go to all the players and especially the three new caps, Jale Vatubua, Viliame Mata and Kalivati Tawake” McKee said.

“Preparation in Melbourne has been very good. I could definitely feel an increase in focus at training today as the players prepare for this important test match.”

McKee added that the test against Australia will be a big challenge for them.

“This Test against Australia will be a big challenge for us.  With this challenge comes opportunity for players to make their mark with their performance for Fiji and for all of our supporters at home and overseas.  This challenge presents a great opportunity for Fiji to make their mark in world rugby with a top class performance against the number three nation in the World.”

“If we can be our best, individually and as a team, in this match I believe we can push Australia all the way”.

McKee added that the team morale has been high in camp and the solidarity of the players shows that they are highly motivated and proud to be representing their country on the world stage.

The match kicks off at 5pm (Fiji Time).

The Vodafone Flying Fijians: Campese Maáfu, Sunia Koto, Peni Ravai, Tevita Cavubati, Leone Nakarawa, Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Naulia Dawai, Akapusi Qera (C), Nikola Matawalu, Ben Volavola, Vereniki Goneva, Jale Vatubua, Albert Vulivuli, Timoci Nagusa, Kini Murimurivalu, Tuapati Talemaitoga, Joeli Veitayaki, Kalivati Tawake, Api Ratuniyarawa, Viliame Mata, Nemani Nagusa, Seurpepeli Vularika, Benito Masilevu.

By Reginald Chandar