We have a good depth coming through despite missing some key players - Byrne

Swire Shipping Fijian Drua coach Mick Byrne has revealed that they have got a good depth coming through even though they will be missing some of their key players.

Byrne says with the absence of prop Jone Koroiduadua, Meli Tuni and Frank Lomani, this has given the chance for some of the players in the squad to step up and make the most of this opportunity.

Koroiduadua has been suspended for two weeks after he headbutted a Melbourne Rebels player during round 7 of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific clash between the Drua and the Rebels while Lomani is also facing a 6 weeks suspension for elbowing Rebels lock Josh Canham on the head in the same match.

Tuni is currently in Samoa with the Rooster Chicken Fijian Warriors side for the World Rugby Pacific Challenge.

Byrne says with Koroiduadua and Tuni out, Samuela Tawake is coping well in covering for the position.

He says Lomani’s absence, the two remaining halfbacks, Simi Kuruvoli and Peni Matawalu is sure to do the job for the team especially with young Philip Baselala out as well due to injury.

The Drua will take on the Hurricanes at 7.05pm Friday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.

In other Super Rugby Pacific matches this week, the Reds will host the Highlanders at 9.35pm Friday, the Blues will take on the Brumbies at 7.05pm Saturday and the Force will play the Crusaders at 9.35pm Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women will play the Western Force at 4.35pm this Friday in the first semi final of the Super Rugby Women's competition at the HFC Stadium as well.

Round 11