Vodafone Fijiana XVs coach Mosese Rauluni has made 12 changes to his starting lineup that will take on Papua New Guinea in round two of the 2024 Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship tomorrow.
The interesting change made is the movement of utility back Atelaite Buna from the wings to the outside centre, with veteran centre Vani Arei being rested for this match.
Rauluni says shifting Buna from wing to centre is to let the young flyer get closer to the ball this week as she did not get much possession on the wing last week.
He says the change of position for Buna is not much of a major thing as she is dangerous with ball in hand and they just want her to get her hands on the ball more this time around.
Rauluni made 7 changes in the forwards and 5 changes in the backline which included some positional changes.
Iris Verebalavu, Keleni Marawa and Tiana Robanakadavu will make up the front row, Asinate Serevi will pair up at locks with Mereoni Nakesa, Doreen Narokete and Fulori Nabura will be on the flanks and captain Karalaini Naisewa retains her spot at number 8.
Setaita Railumu and Merewalesi Rokouono will form the new halves pair while Repeka Tove will be making her debut on the left wing and will link up with Merewairita Neivosa who will start on the right wing.
Merewai Cumu will partner with Buna in the centres and Luisa Tisolo will be at fullback.
In the reserves, Unaisi Lalabalavu, Loraini Senivutu, Vika Matarugu, Nunia Daunimoala and Sulita Waisega will cover for the forwards while Evivi Senikarivi, Salanieta Kinita and Adita Milinia will cover for the backs.
The Fijiana will take on PNG at 7.30pm tomorrow in Brisbane.
In another match, Samoa will take on Tonga at 9.30pm tomorrow.
