Raiwalui names final 33-member Flying Fijians squad for RWC, Volavola out

Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Simon Raiwalui has named his final 33-member squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup with an interesting exclusion of veteran flyhalf Ben Volavola.

Raiwalui has opted to go with Swire Shipping Fijian Drua duo Teti Tela and Caleb Muntz as his flyhalves choice for the World Cup.

When asked about his decision on dropping Volavola, Raiwalui says they were trying to fit three players into one position so they ended up selecting on the balance of how the team wants to play.

Raiwalui says these past 5 weeks have been a really good journey for the team and he is proud of how the players performed.

The squad has 18 Fijian Drua players included.

The Fiji Water Flying Fijians for the Rugby World Cup 2023 are:

Forwards:

Peni Ravai, Eroni Mawi, Jone Koroiduadua, Samuela Matavesi, Tevita Ikanivere, Zuriel Togiatama, Mesake Doge, Luke Tagi, Samu Tawake, Isoa Nasilasila, Temo Mayanavanua, Albert Tuisue, Lekima Tagitagivalu, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Levani Botia, Viliame Mata, Meli Derenalagi, Vilive Miramira.

Backs:

Frank Lomani, Simione Kuruvoli, Peni Matawalu, Teti Tela, Caleb Muntz, Josua Tuisova, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Waisea Nayacalevu, Iosefo Masi, Vinaya Habosi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Selestino Ravutaumada, Ilaisa Drosese, Semi Radradra, Sireli Maqala.

The Flying Fijians will now turn their focus on their two upcoming test matches against France and England on the 20th and 27th of this month respectively before heading to the Rugby World Cup.