10 January, 2026, 1:05 pm Central - 29°C Rain

Tuwai, Samusamuvodre and Rakuro in line for Flying Fijians debut, Tamanivalu returns after 3 years
Wainiqolo and Tuisova misses selection

Tuwai, Samusamuvodre and Rakuro in line for Flying Fijians debut, Tamanivalu returns after 3 years

Wainiqolo and Tuisova misses selection

By Mosese Raqio
11/08/2025
Taniela Rakuro Photo: Taranaki Rugby, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre Photo: Fijian Drua, Isoa Tuwai Photo: Fijian Drua

Swire Shipping Fijian Drua reps Isoa Tuwai, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Taniela Rakuro have been named in the Fiji Water Flying Fijians’ 30-member squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup (PNC), with veteran outside back and former All Black Seta Tamanivalu making a return after three years.

Tuwai, Samusamuvodre and Rakuro are in line to make their international debuts during the tournament, while Tamanivalu forces his way back into national contention after last appearing for the Flying Fijians in 2022.

Head coach Mick Byrne has opted for a balanced squad blending youth and experience.

Notable omissions include France-based stars Jiuta Wainiqolo and Josua Tuisova, who are believed to have rejoined their clubs for pre-season training.

The forwards include Eroni Mawi, Haereiti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Samu Tawake, Meli Tuni, Tevita Ikanivere, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Zuriel Togiatama, Isoa Nasilasila, Temo Mayanavanua, Mesake Vocevoce, Etonia Waqa, Elia Canakaivata, Motikai Murray, Isoa Tuwai, Bill Mata, and Kitione Salawa.

The backline include Philip Baselala, Simione Kuruvoli, Sam Wye, Kemu Valentini, Caleb Muntz, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Inia Tabuavou, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Ponipate Loganimasi, Taniela Rakuro, Semi Radradra, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, and Seta Tamanivalu.

The Flying Fijians will open their PNC campaign against Tonga on 30th August at 3pm at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.

FNRL
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