5 February, 2026, 8:09 pm Central - 25°C Rain

Vakatawa named in Fijian Drua starting XV for Skipper Select clash tomorrow

Vakatawa named in Fijian Drua starting XV for Skipper Select clash tomorrow

By Rashika Kumar
05/02/2026
Former French international player Virimi Vakatawa has been named in the starting line up as inside centre of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua that will take on the Skipper Select side tomorrow. 

In the forwards, Emosi Tuqiri will start as loosehead prop while Zuriel Togiataama will be the hooker and Mesake Doge starts as tighthead prop.

Temo Mayanavanua will pair with Isoa Nasilasila at locks, while Joseva Tamani and Kitione Salawa will start at flanker.

Elia Canakaivata will start at number eight.

In the backs, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa will start at scrum-half while Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula will be at number 10. 

Epeli Momo will start at left while Joji Nasova will be right wing with Inia Tabuavou playing outside Centre and Ilaisa Droasese at fullback.

Haereiti Hetet, Penaia Cakobau, Peni Ravai, Vilive Miramira, Mesake Vocevce, Etonia Waqa, Isoa Tuwai, Motikai Murray, Philip Baselala, Simione Kuruvoli, Frank Lomani, Kemu Valetini, Isikeli Rabitu, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Isikeli Basiyalo, Ponipate Loganimasi and development players Harold Rounds and Sairusi Ravudi are expected to provide an impact. 

The Fijian Drua faces the Skipper Select side at 4pm at Churchill Park in Lautoka tomorrow. 

They play Moana Pasifika in their first Super Rugby Pacific game at Churchill Park on February 14th.
FNRL
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