Religious beliefs were the main factor in the decision by the Flying Fijians not to perform the traditional war dance or “cibi” for tomorrow's showdown against Scotland.
Flying Fijians Coach designate and Team Pastor on the Europe Tour, Samu Domoni Junior said they will not do the “cibi” as they fear the Lord.
Domoni Junior said the matter was first discussed by the management and then given to the players to vote on.
He adds the decision not to do the “cibi” was decided on by a show of hands from the players and management.
The “cibi” has been performed by all Fijian rugby teams before an international match for past 70years.
Meanwhile, Scotland edged their last meeting with Fiji 22-20 at Rugby World Cup in 2003 to seal a quarterfinal place, and will be looking to get Andy Robinson's reign as coach off to a winning start against the islanders.
The Scots will move above Fiji into ninth with victory, but defeat puts them at risk of falling out of the top 10.
The Fiji team to take on Scotland tomorrow are: in the forwards, Alefoso Yalayalatabua, Vili Veikoso, Deacon Manu, Wame Lewaravu, Ifereimi Rawaqa, Josefa Domolailai, Akapusi Qera and Asaeli Boko.
In the backline: Mosese Rauluni, Nicky Little, Napolioni Nalaga, Seremaia Bai, Gabriel Lovobalavu, Vereniki Goneva and Josh Matavesi.
The Fiji/Scotland match kicks off at 2:30am tomorrow morning in Murrayfield.
Feature
Religious beliefs main factor for no Cibi