Fiji Water Flying Fijians prop Luke Tagi has been withdrawn from the final 32-member squad for the July test series due to an ankle injury and has been replaced by Swire Shipping Fijian Drua prop Samuela Tawake.
This has been confirmed by the Fiji Rugby Union who says after careful consultation between Head Coach Mick Byrne, Tagi, and the medical staff at Bayonne, it was mutually agreed that the forward should stand down from all rugby activities to focus on a full recovery and receive the necessary medical treatment.
Byrne says Tagi is an important part of the Flying Fijians squad, and his presence will be missed during the upcoming matches.
He says however, Tagi's long-term health and recovery is their top priority and they are confident that he will receive the best possible care in France and look forward to seeing him back at full strength in the future.
Tagi, who is contracted with Bayonne until 2028, will remain in France to undergo rehabilitation.
The Flying Fijians management and fans extend their best wishes to Tagi for a speedy recovery and also thanked Tawake for stepping up to represent the national team.
The Flying Fijians will take on the Wallabies at 3.30pm next Sunday at Newcastle International Sports Centre.
They will then play Scotland on the 12th of July at 3pm at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
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