Jake White names first Flying Fijians squad with three uncapped players for Japan Centennial Test

Jake White has named his first Flying Fijians squad since being appointed Fiji head coach, selecting a 28-man group for the Japan Centennial Test at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo on Saturday, October 24. Just three uncapped players feature in an otherwise experienced roster, signalling continuity as the 2007 Rugby World Cup-winning Springboks coach takes charge.

Fiji Rugby confirmed White’s appointment on Wednesday, with the South African taking over from interim coach Senirusi Seruvakaula. He will lead the Flying Fijians through to the next Rugby World Cup in Australia, now less than a year away.

The match against Japan represents a rematch of the Pacific Nations Cup final, where the Brave Blossoms beat Fiji in a thrilling decider at the same Tokyo venue. That defeat was Fiji’s last outing, making the Centennial Test a chance for White’s side to settle the score on familiar ground.

Tevita Ikanivere leads the forwards, which also includes Peni Ravai, Mesake Doge, Mesake Vocevoce and Kitione Salawa — the latter having scored less than 30 seconds into Fiji’s Pacific Nations Cup semi-final win over Canada in Osaka. Apolosa Vuniyayawa is among the three debutants named in the forward pack.

In the backs, HSBC SVNS Series Dream Team member Terio Tamani is one of three scrum-half options alongside Frank Lomani and Sam Wye. Kemu Valetini, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula and Ben Volavola are the candidates to wear the No. 10 jersey. Olympic silver medallist Joji Nasova also features, bringing additional experience to the backline alongside the two uncapped backs, Kavekini Boselawa and Nacani Boginisoko.

After the Japan fixture, Fiji head north for the Nations Championship, facing France on November 7 before meeting Ireland and Italy on successive weekends.