20-year-old Swire Shipping Fijian Drua halfback Philip Baselala and former Hurricanes winger Salesi Rayasi have been named in the final 32-member Fiji Water Flying Fijians squad that was announced this afternoon for the upcoming July test series and the Pacific Nations Cup.
Outgoing Swire Shipping Fijian Drua hooker Tevita Ikanivere will captain the side in place of former skipper Waisea Nayacalevu.
This has been revealed by coach Mick Byrne who says Ikanivere has been a true leader over the years.
Byrne adds he would love to rekindle his relationship with Ikanivere knowing the impact he has had on rugby in Fiji.
Meanwhile, there are 13 players from the Fijian Drua squad, 10 France-based players, 5 England-based players and 1 NZ-based player.
The Flying Fijians squad are: Eroni Mawi, Luke Tagi, Haereiti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Peni Ravai, Tevita Ikanivere, Samuel Matavesi, Kavaia Tagiveitaua, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua, Setareki Turagacoke, Viliame Mata, Elia Canakaivata, Lekima Tagitagivalu, Albert Tuisue, Etonia Waqa, Motikiai Murray, Simione Kuruvoli, Philip Baselala, Sam Wye, Caleb Muntz, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Vilimoni Botitu, Josua Tuisova, Iosefo Baleiwairiki, Sireli Maqala, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Ponipate Loganimasi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Selestino Ravutaumada, and Salesi Rayasi.
The team will assemble on the 26th of this month before flying out on the 27th to Newcastle.
The Flying Fijians are scheduled to play the Wallabies on 6th July in Newcastle, Australia, and the second Test against Scotland on 12th July 2025 at the HFC Bank Stadium, Suva.
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