Derenalagi to captain Drua against the Reds

Olympic gold medallist Meli Derenalagi will lead the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua side when they take on the Queensland Reds this week in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific.

Head Coach Mick Byrne has retained all of the 23 players from last week’s win against Crusaders but has mixed up the starting 15 and the impact players.

Meli Tuni will start again at loosehead prop, Samuela Tawake starts at tighthead, and Tevita Ikanivere will complete the front row at hooker.

Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta is back in the starting 15 and will start at locks with Isoa Nasilasila.

Joseva Tamani retains his spot at blindside flanker, Kitione Salawa will start at openside flanker, while Derenalagi is at number 8.

Frank Lomani will combine with Teti Tela at the halves while blockbusting centre Apisalome Vota starts his second match at inside centre, with Iosefo Masi firmly holding on the outside centre role.

Eroni Sau and Selestino Ravutaumada are on the wings, with Ilaisa Droasese at fullback.

The Fijian Drua will meet the Queensland Reds at 5 pm Sunday.

STARTING 15:

1. Meli Tuni 2. Tevita Ikanivere 3. Samuela Tawake 4. Isoa Nasilasila 5. Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta 6. Joseva Tamani 7. Kitione Salawa 8. Meli Derenalagi (C) 9. Frank Lomani 10. Teti Tela 11. Eroni Sau 12. Apisalome Vota 13. Iosefo Masi 14. Selestino Ravutaumada 15. Ilaisa Droasese

IMPACT PLAYERS

16. Mesulame Dolokoto 17. Emosi Tuqiri 18. Jone Koroiduadua 19. Leone Rotuisolia 20. Elia Canakaivata 21. Peni Matawalu 22. Kemu Valetini 23. Kalaveti Ravouvou