Former Fiji Under-20 flyhalf Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, former France based Epeli Momo, former Suva Grammar School flyhalf Isikeli Rabitu and former Fiji Under-20 lock Mesake Vocevoce will be making their Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific debut when the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua take on the Blues in their first match this week.
Armstrong-Ravula will start at number 10, Momo is on the right wing, and Rabitu will start at fullback.
Vocevoce will come in as a replacement for the forwards.
Head Coach Mick Byrne has assembled a strong front row with Livai Natave getting the nod at loosehead prop, Tevita Ikanivere as hooker and Mesake Doge at tighthead prop.
Flying Fijians lock Isoa Nasilasila will partner with Leone Rotuisolia in the second row, with Etonia Waqa at blindside flanker and Elia Canakaivata on the openside.
Captain Meli Derenalagi will start at number 8.
The experienced Frank Lomani starts at halfback and will partner with Armstrong-Ravula, who is at flyhalf.
Taveuni flyer, Selestino Ravutaumada will start on the left wing while barnstorming centre Apisalome Vota gets a start at inside centre with Drua’s leading try scorer Iosefo Masi outside him.
The Drua will meet the Blues at 3.35pm Saturday.
In other round 1 matches this week, the Crusaders will play the Chiefs at 6.05pm this Friday, the Rebels will play the Brumbies at 8.35pm Friday, the Force will take on the Hurricanes at 11pm Friday, the Highlanders will host the Moana Pasifika at 6.05pm Saturday, and the Reds will take on the Waratahs at 9.05pm Saturday.
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