Walker names Fijiana XV squad for WXV Global Series Challenger in Hong Kong

New Fijiana XV head coach Willie Walker has named a 30-player squad for the WXV Global Series Challenger, with the side set to face Spain, Hong Kong China and the Netherlands at Kai Tak Sports Ground next month.

Walker, who was appointed shortly before Fiji’s two-Test series against the Springbok Women in August, has opted for continuity in his first major selection. Scrum-half Kolora Lomani retains the captaincy, though the squad is without Adi Salaseini Railumu, Sulita Waisega and Loraini Senivutu, all ruled out through injury.

One notable addition is back-row forward Manuqalo Komaitai, who will join the squad in Japan ahead of a warm-up clash with the Sakura Fifteen in Fukuoka before the tournament begins. Komaitai emerged as one of the standout performers at Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 and has since signed for Premiership Women’s Rugby club Harlequins. She also serves in the British Army.

The squad announcement follows a difficult August series against South Africa, in which the Springbok Women became the first Springbok team of any kind to tour the Pacific Islands. They won both Tests convincingly — 55-12 in Suva in the first match, before overturning a 10-5 half-time deficit in Lautoka the following week, with Maria Tshiremba scoring a hat-trick to seal the series.

Despite those results, Walker struck an optimistic tone when speaking to Fijian media this week. “I think from what I’ve seen in my limited time here, it’s exciting,” he said. “This is one of the reasons why I decided to apply for this job, because there’s so much potential in this country. I don’t think we’ve even touched the surface of the potential that is actually available.”

Fijiana XV squad for WXV Global Series Challenger

Forwards: Tiana Robanakadavu, Adi Keri Lawavou, Karalaini Naisewa, Elesi Saukuru, Zipporah Sorokacika, Bitila Tawake, Keleni Marawa, Selai Naliva, Mereoni Nakesa, Carletta Yee, Jade Coates, Naravaki Lutumaibau, Alfreda Fisher, Nunia Daunimoala, Sereana Nasau, Merewairita Neivoha, Manuqalo Kamatai

Backs: Kolora Lomani (c), Evivi Senikarivi, Varaniesese Qoro, Ivamere Rokowati, Josivini Naihamu, Ruth Raketekete, Adi Salote Nailolo, Atelaite Buna, Aqela Raitubu, Adi Vani Buleki, Repeka Tove, Litiana Vueti, Vasemaca Duva