The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has named a strong team for their Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific opener against the Brumbies this Saturday where three players are expected to make their first Super Rugby appearance.
Vuate Karawalevu and Ponipate Loganimasi will start on the wing, while Suva flanker Isoa Tuwai is on the bench.
The 23-member team also sees the return of flanker Joseva Tamani, who last featured for the Fijian Drua against the Reds in Round 15, 2023.
Haereiti Hetet will team up with Samuela Tawake at prop, while co-captain Tevita Ikanivere will start at hooker.
Mesake Vocevoce partners with Leone Rotuisolia at locks, while Tamani is at blindside flanker with Kitione Salawa at openside.
Elia Canakaivata starts at number 8.
Simi Kuruvoli and Caleb Muntz will partner in the halves, while Kemu Valetini and Iosefo Masi will start at number 12 and 13, respectively.
Young Isikeli Rabitu has been named at fullback.
On the bench, coach Glen Jackson has named prop Livai Natave as loosehead cover, with Meli Tuni covering at tighthead.
Mesulame Dolokoto is the backup hooker, and Vilive Miramira and Tuwai will be the replacement in the back row.
Co-captain Frank Lomani, Peni Matawalu and Tuidraki Samusamuvodre are the reserves for the backlines.
The Fijian Drua will host the Brumbies at the HFC Bank Stadium at 3.35pm this Saturday.
In other matches, the Crusaders will meet the Hurricanes at 6.05pm Friday, the Waratahs will take on the Highlanders at 8.35pm Friday, the Blues will face the Chiefs at 6.05pm Saturday, and the Force will play Moana Pasifika at 8.35pm Saturday.
