Vodafone Fijiana XVs coach Ioan Cunningham has named 5 new players in his match day 23 squad that will take on Tonga for the Oceania Championship Opener tomorrow.
The 5 new players include Litiana Vueti, Salote Nailolo, Michella’e Stolz, Selai Naliva, and Manuqalo Noame Komaitai.
Cunningham says selection is always a challenge as they are not just looking at talent, but they are looking at adaptability, mental toughness, and how players thrive in unfamiliar environments.
He says they have seen how some players have grown from the Wallaroos match, and now the selection management wants to see continued progress in key areas like territory control and tackle accuracy.
Cunningham has also made several changes from the last test against the Wallaroos which include Bitila Tawake and Tiana Robanakadavu, who came off the bench in that match, starting in the front row alongside Loraini Senivutu, who has forced her way into the starting XV.
Captain Alfreda Fisher shifts from blindside flanker to openside flanker, and Nunia Daunimoala, who didn’t play against the Wallaroos, shifts to blindside flanker.
In the backs, Setaita Railumu starts at halfback, while Vueti will debut at fullback, replacing Luisa Tisolo.
Cunningham says against the Wallaroos, the team had just 31 percent territory and missed 41 tackles.
He says they have set internal benchmarks, and they want better territory stats, ideally 50 percent or more, and to reduce missed tackles to under 15 per match.
He adds more than just winning, success for them means improving performance, clarity in their game plan, and inspiring the people.
Cunnigham also emphasized the importance of leaving a lasting impact saying that this tournament is an opportunity to build a legacy and set the platform for future success, including preparations for the World Cup.
The Fijiana XVs side to take on Tonga:
1. Loraini Senivutu, 2. Bitila Tawake, 3. Tiana Robanakadavu, 4. Jade Coates, 5. Mereoni Nakesa, 6. Nunia Daunimoala, 7. Alfreda Fisher (Captain), 8. Rusila Nagasau, 9. Setaita Railumu, 10. Salanieta Kinita, 11. Atelaite Buna, 12. Josifini Neihamu, 13. Ema Adivitaloga, 14. Repeka Tove, 15. Litiana Vueti.
Reserves:
16. Selai Naliva, 17. Salanieta Nabuli, 18. Bulou Wainikiti Vasuturaga, 19. Asinate Serevi, 20. Manuqalo Noame Komaitai, 21. Kolora Lomani, 22. Salote Nailolo, 23. Michella’e Stolz.
The Fijiana will take on Tonga at 2pm tomorrow at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
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