Mesulame Dolokoto and Iosefo Masi have been named as co-captains this week when the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua take on the Highlanders in the round 9 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific.
Head Coach Glen Jackson has shifted Caleb Muntz to fullback and young Philip Baselala on the bench as the side is looking to turn their season around at the halfway mark of the 2025 season.
Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani's names have been omitted from the match-day 23.
Haereiti Hetet will start at loosehead prop, with Mesake Doge at tighthead and Dolokoto at hooker.
Locks Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila retain their positions in the middle row while Joseva Tamanistarts at blindside flanker, with Isoa Tuwai at openside.
Elia Canakaivata starts as number 8.
In the backline, Simione Kuruvoli will partner with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula in the halves, and Ponipate Loganimasi will start at left wing with Selestino Ravutaumada at right.
Inia Tabuavou will partner with Iosefo Masi in the midfield, and Caleb Muntz is at fullback.
For bench impact this week, Jackson has selected Zuriel Togiatama as the backup hooker, Peni Ravai as loosehead and Samuela Tawake to cover the tighthead prop position.
Leone Rotuisolia will cover for the locks, and Vilive Miramira will back up the loose forward trio.
Baselala will cover halfback with Isikeli Rabitu covering flyhalf. Tuidraki Samusamuvodre completes the match-day squad as backline utility.
The Drua will take on the Highlanders at 7.05pm this Saturday at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin.
In other matches this weekend, the Hurricanes will play the Crusaders at 7.05pm Friday, the Waratahs will take on the Chiefs at 9.35pm Friday, the Blues will host Moana Pasifika at 4.35pm Saturday, and the Reds will play the Brumbies at 9.35pm Saturday.
