Ben Volavola is expected to start at fly-half for the Vodafone Flying Fijians against the unbeaten Samoan side in their Pacific Nations Cup this weekend.
Coach Vern Cotter confirms Teti Tela had to fly back to Australia to welcome his newborn.
Cotter is also expected to make some changes in the midfield with Filimoni Botitu expected to get his first start alongside captain Levani Botia.
Cotter adds that Botitu can also play at fullback.
The Flying Fijians final 23 will be named on Thursday.
Fiji will play Samoa at 3.30pm at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Meanwhile, Australia A will face Tonga at 12pm.
