Vota undeterred by big names in Tonga

Vodafone Flying Fijians centre Apisalome Vota says facing big names such as Charles Piutau, Malakai Fekitoa and Israel Folau is nothing new and he is looking forward to the opportunity of playing Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup on Saturday.

With an opportunity to play against the former All Blacks and Wallabies stars who are set to start, the 25-year-old from Navuso village in Naitasiri said he is ready to go.

“Every game I have played (in Super Rugby) I have met the same kind of opposition, when playing against Australia and New Zealand,” Vota said after their training session at Albert Park today.

“They had big names too so it is nothing new.”

“I have been preparing myself and I am looking forward to it.”

Vota said it would be extra special for him when he puts on that white jersey if selected for their Pacific Nations Cup opener on Saturday.

“Ever since I was small, since I was a little boy, it was always the dream to wear the jersey, and I know this will be my opportunity.”

Vota added to rub shoulders with the more experienced players in Levani Botia, Waisea Nayacalevu and Setareki Tamanivalu is a big boost for him and he is looking to learn as much as he can.

Vota was a standout for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua with his hard runs and solid defence,  and also scored five tries during the Drua’s Super Rugby Pacific pioneer season.

“It has been an honour playing for the Drua and an even greater honour having my name called up for the Flying Fijians.”

By Noa Biudole