The wait is over for Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and Fiji Water Flying Fijians flyhalf Caleb Muntz as he will be making his return from injury this weekend after being named in the Drua’s match day 23-squad to take on the Highlanders in round 14 of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.
Muntz suffered a long-term knee injury just before the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France last year and was ruled for 9 months but the 24-year-old was well ahead with his recovery process which enables him to make an early return to the field.
Muntz has been named on the bench for a potential first appearance for the season.
In the front row, Jone Koroiduadua, Tevita Ikanivere and Mesake Doge retain their position, Mesake Vocevoce will partner Isoa Nasilasila at locks while Etonia Waqa and Kitione Salawa will start on the flanks and Elia Canakaivata at number 8.
Byrne has retained the halves pair of Simione Kuruvoli and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula while Kemueli Valetini and Iosefo Masi partner in the centre.
Epeli Momo will link up with Selestino Ravutaumada on the wings with Ilaisa Droasese at fullback.
On the bench, Zuriel Togiatama, Emosi Tuqiri, Samuela Tawake, Ratu Leone Rotuisolia and Vilive Miramira will provide cover for the forwards with Peni Matawalu, Muntz and Taniela Rakuro providing cover for the backs.
The Drua will take on the Highlanders at 2.05pm this Sunday in Dunedin. In other matches this week, the Chiefs play the Hurricanes at 7.05pm Friday, the Brumbies host the Rebels at 9.35pm Friday, Moana Pasifika take on the Waratahs at 4.35pm Saturday, the Crusaders play the Blues at 7.05pm Saturday, and the Reds meet the Force at 9.35pm Saturday.
