Waqaniburotu out of RWC, Lewaravu in doubt

The Flying Fijians have been hit with yet another worry as lock, Wame Lewaravu's finger injury is likely to rule him out for two weeks.

Specialists are expected to assess Lewaravu today and give a verdict as to when he is likely to be fit again.

According to team management, Lewaravu is able to do light training but he will not be able to regain any free movement in his finger for at least two weeks which means he is likely to be out for two games.

Team Manager, Pio Bosco Tikoisuva said it is still unclear at the moment whether he can still make it to the next pool game against Samoa on Sunday, and they are looking at all avenues before a final decision is made.

If Lewaravu is ruled out than he joins Dominiko Waqaniburotu who has been suspended for three weeks after admitting a dangerous tackle during Fiji's 49-3 loss to the Springboks over the weekend.

He spear tackled South African fullback, Patrick Lambie towards the end of the game.

The offence was deemed to be mid-range, which has an entry point of six weeks.

However taking into account mitigating factors including his admission, his excellent disciplinary record and remorse and the absence of aggravating factors, Waqaniburotu was suspended for a period of three weeks.

The suspension effectively ends the Waikato forward's tournament, unless Fiji can do the unthinkable at this stage and reach the semi final for the first time in Rugby World Cup history.

Fiji will play Samoa on Sunday at 2.30pm and you can catch the live commentary on our sister station, Viti FM with the voice of rugby, Malakai Veisamasama and expert comments from former Wallaby and former Fiji player and 2007 RWC coach, Ilivasi Tabua.


Story by: Vijay Narayan & Selina Navuso