15 December, 2025, 7:01 am Central - 23°C Rain

Droasese returns to fullback as Drua takes on the Force

Droasese returns to fullback as Drua takes on the Force

By Navitalai Naivalurua
08/05/2024
Source : Getty Images

The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua have named a formidable side as they hunt for their first win in Perth when they take on the Western Force in Round 12 of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific.

Head Coach Mick Byrne has named an unchanged forwards with Haereiti Hetet retaining his place at loosehead prop, Tevita Ikanivere at hooker, and veteran prop Mesake Doge remaining at tighthead.

Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila will partner again at locks.

Vilive Miramira, retains his place at blindside flanker with Kitione Salawa on the openside, and captain Meli Derenalagi starts at number 8.

Peni Matawalu will again start at halfback alongside Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula at flyhalf.

Taniela Rakuro retains his spot on the left wing, with Selestino Ravutaumada returning to the right-wing position this week.

Michael Naitokani is at inside centre, with Iosefo Masi outside him, and Ilaisa Droasese returns to fullback.

The Fijian Drua will face the Force at 11.55pm Saturday in Perth.

First 15 1. Haereiti Hetet, 2. Tevita Ikanivere, 3. Mesake Doge, 4. Mesake Vocece, 5. Isoa Nasilasila, 6. Vilive Miramira, 7. Kitione Salawa, 8. Meli Derenalagi (c), 9. Peni Matawalu, 10. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, 11. Taniela Rakuro, 12. Michael Naitokani, 13. Iosefo Masi, 14. Selestino Ravutaumada, 15. Ilaisa Droasese

Impact 16. Zuriel Togiatama, 17. Emosi Tuqiri, 18. Samu Tawake, 19. Leone Rotuisolia, 20. Motikiai Murray, 21. Simi Kuruvoli, 22. Kemu Valetini, 23. Epeli Momo

FNRL
FEATURE NEWS
TD03F to impact Fiji from tomorrow night as centre of system expected to enter Fiji waters on Tuesday
People are urged to remain vigilant and prepare, as the effects of Tropical Depression TD03F are expected to be felt from tomorrow night, as the centr...
16 hours ago
LATEST NEWS
Two gunmen open fire at Bondi Chanukkah event, 10 confirmed dead
A gunman has been shot dead and another is being treated after opening fire on Bondi beach, killing 10 people in what is believed to be a targeted ...
10 hours ago

Southern Division records 30% decline in serious crime
The Southern Division of the Fiji Police has recorded reductions in crime during the first quarter of the 2025–2026 financial year, highlighting ...
14 hours ago

Raiwai man arrested for aggravated robbery outside Milverton Road Top Shop this morning
A 23 year old man residing in Raiwai was arrested and taken into custody, in relation to an aggravated robbery case in Raiwaqa this morning.The ...
14 hours ago

Fiji Museum to host 2 day Bakanawa canoe making holiday programme from tomorrow
The Fiji Museum is hosting a 2-day Bakanawa Canoe Making Holiday Programme starting from tomorrow aimed at providing children and youths with a ...
15 hours ago

Barbara O'Neill and Dr Rajesh Maharaj to appear on fijivillage Straight Talk at 7pm Wednesday
Naturopath and nutritionist, Barbara O'Neill and former President of Fiji College of General Practitioners and General Practitioner with special ...
16 hours ago



Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations

CFL radio frequencies
IN DEPTH
Sonia Shanaaz says silent treatment hurts as she waits for assistance for her daughter with cerebral palsy
Sonia Shanaaz, the mother of 10-year-old Aarna who was born with cerebral palsy, says silent treatment hurts after she reached out to the ...
3 days ago

I do not support police officers being charged on public opinions and without evidence - COMPOL
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu says he will stand by his officers, and he does not support any officer being charged based on public opinion ...
3 days ago

Dubai 7s 2025
The Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s side are working on their fitness as they prepare for the start of the 2025/2026 World 7s Series this ...
7 days ago

TOP