Meli Tuni to debut for the Drua against the Blues

Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Coach Mick Byrne has announced the line-up to take on Super Rugby Pacific competition table leaders the Blues in the Super Round in Melbourne.

Meli Derenalagi will again captain the side which has a run-on debutant as well as a potential debut from the bench.

There are also a number of exciting positional changes.

Suva prop Meli Tuni gets a run-on debut at loosehead prop this week while it is the first start for Flying Fijians tighthead prop Manasa Saulo.

Mesulame Dolokoto retains his role at hooker.

Naitasiri lock Chris Minimbi will get to make his first start in the run-on side as well partnering with Viliame Rarasea.

Captain Meli Derenalagi moves to the side of the scrum as blindside flanker with Rusiate Nasove starting as openside flanker and the returning Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta taking over the number 8 loose forward position.

Peni Matawalu is the halfback partnering with Simione Kuruvoli who starts the match at flyhalf.

Caleb Muntz starts at inside centre with Kalaveti Ravouvou at outside centre.

Onisi Ratave will be looking to add to his four tries in the competition so far from the left-wing position with Tuidraki Samusamuvodre on the right-wing and the hot stepping Kitione Taliga getting his first start of the season at fullback.

Backing up from the bench will be Zuriel Togiatama, Timoci Sauvoli, Jone Koroiduadua, Isoa Nasilasila and Joseva Tamani.

Suva halfback Leone Nawai is a potential debut as he takes his place on the bench, alongside utility backs Jona Mataiciwa and Frank Lomani.

The Fijian Drua will play the Blues at 7.05pm this Saturday in the Super Round in Melbourne.