SVNS Dream Team scrum-half Tamani set for Flying Fijians debut in PNC opener against Canada

Terio Tamani, named in the 2026 SVNS Dream Team of the Year, is set to make his Flying Fijians debut off the bench when Fiji open their Pacific Nations Cup 2026 campaign against Canada on Saturday. Interim head coach Senirusi Seruvakula has selected three uncapped players in total, with Penaia Cakobau and Inoke Ravuiwasa also in line for their first caps.

Tamani, who earned his Dream Team recognition alongside Fiji Sevens teammate Vuiviwa Naduvalo, is named as back-up scrum-half behind starter Frank Lomani. Isaish Armstrong-Ravula wins the No. 10 jersey ahead of Caleb Muntz, who drops to the bench. Tevita Ikanivere captains the side, with Peni Ravai and Mesaka Doge starting in the front row and Kalaveti Ravouvou and Virimi Vakatawa forming the centre partnership. Isikeli Rabitu starts at fullback.

Fiji arrive as defending PNC champions, having beaten Japan in last year’s final in Utah and also claiming the 2024 edition held in Japan. However, they head into the tournament on the back of a difficult July, going winless across three Nations Championship Tests.

Canada are similarly seeking a response after suffering a 45-point defeat to Japan last weekend in the JFRU 100th anniversary match. Canada coach Stephen Meehan acknowledged the challenge Fiji present, while identifying areas his side can exploit.

“They will be a very different challenge to the one that we faced against Japan,” Meehan told reporters. “Japan’s very well-organised and diligent and disciplined in the way that they play. Fiji have that ability to call on their physical attributes and throw that ball around in all sorts of fashions.”

Meehan also noted the uncertainty surrounding Fiji’s coaching setup, with the Flying Fijians having advertised for a permanent head coach and recently bringing in a new defensive coach. “I’m not sure how much of an impact Dave Ellis can have in a week or two with them,” he said.

Despite that, the Canadian coach was wary of complacency. “You always expect a free-spirited display and a challenge that comes in different ways every time you play a Fijian side. The key message with these teams is always to expect the unexpected. You must remain diligent and disciplined with your defensive game.”