Sevens Dream Team star Tamani earns Flying Fijians call-up for Pacific Nations Cup defence

HSBC SVNS Dream Team of the Year standout Terio Tamani has been named in the Flying Fijians’ 31-man squad for the 2026 Pacific Nations Cup in Japan, as reigning champions Fiji prepare to open their title defence against Canada on September 12 at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka.

Tamani, who impressed throughout the 2026 SVNS Series campaign alongside Fiji teammate Vuiviwa Naduvalo — also a Dream Team selection — will compete for a place in the matchday 23 as one of seven uncapped players in the squad.

Four of those potential debutants are forwards: Penaia Cakobau, Vilikesa Nairau, Inoke Ravuiwasa and Iosa Tuwai are all in contention for a maiden Flying Fijians appearance. In the backs, teenager Maleli Nauvasi and outside back Isaac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens could also earn their first Test caps.

Notably absent are fly-halves Caleb Muntz and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, while Kemu Valetini returns to the fold after missing Fiji’s three Nations Championship fixtures in July. Frank Lomani leads the scrum-half options alongside recent Drua signing Sam Wye and former Fiji Under-20 talent Philip Baselala.

Olympic silver medallist Joji Nasova and recent debutant Virimi Vakatawa are among the more experienced backs included, while the forward pack features Mesaka Bode, Peni Ravai, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesaka Vocevoce, Kitione Salawa and Elia Canakaivata.

Fiji’s path to a potential final runs through the semi-final against Canada in Osaka, with the third-place playoff and final both scheduled for September 19 at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo. There, Fiji would face either Japan or the USA depending on the result.