Injuries continue to disrupt both the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika as they prepare for the Super Rugby Pacific ‘Super Round’ in Christchurch.
Both sides have endured a challenging season, with their hopes of securing a top-six finish fading as they navigate ongoing injury concerns across their squads.
Head coaches Tana Umaga of Moana Pasifika and Glen Jackson of the Drua have been forced to make frequent changes to their line-ups, often turning to development and back-up players to fill gaps left by injured teammates.
Jackson says the Drua have shifted their focus to their upcoming clash against the Chiefs, following a morale-boosting win in Canberra against the Brumbies last weekend.
Jackson acknowledged that injuries have limited his options but believes the team remains determined.
Meanwhile, young centre Maika Tuitubou is set to make his debut for the Drua after being named in the starting line-up.
The former Fiji Under-20 representative will partner experienced midfielder Virimi Vakatawa.
Co-captain Frank Lomani returns from injury to strengthen the matchday squad, alongside Taniela Rakuro, Haereiti Hetet and Peni Ravai.
Despite the setbacks, both teams will be aiming to finish the season strongly as they head into the final rounds of the competition.
The Fijian Drua play the Chiefs at 4.30pm Sunday in Christchurch.
In other games, the Crusaders will face the Waratahs at 7.35pm today, the Hurricanes will meet the Brumbies at 5.05pm tomorrow, the Blues play the Reds at 7.35pm, while the Highlanders will face Moana Pasifika at 2pm Sunday.
Source: RNZ
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