(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Flying Fijians Announce 33-Man Squad for 2025 Pacific Nations Cup, Including Three Potential Debutants and Seta Tamanivalu Recall
The Flying Fijians have named a 33-player squad for this year’s Pacific Nations Cup, with three potential debutants and the return of former All Black Seta Tamanivalu.
Head coach Mick Byrne has called up flanker Isoa Tuwai, winger Taniela Rakuro, and outside back Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, all currently representing the Fijian Drua. Rakuro is also featuring as injury cover for Kini Naholo with Taranaki in the NPC.
Samusamuvodre began his professional career with the New England Free Jacks in Major League Rugby before rejoining the Drua, where he has been a key player for four seasons. Tuwai holds eight Super Rugby caps with the Drua.
Leading the squad are experienced players such as No.8 Bill Mata, wing Semi Radradra, and the recalled Seta Tamanivalu, who will be making his first appearance for Fiji since 2022. Tamanivalu has enjoyed success in Japan with Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo, winning back-to-back League One titles.
Notably absent are some France-based stars like Jiuta Wainiqolo, who is joining Lyon, as well as Josua Tuisova and debutant Salesi Rayasi, due to pre-season commitments.
The Flying Fijians will kick off their Pacific Nations Cup campaign against Tonga in Suva on August 30. They then face Samoa on September 6 before all six competing teams head to the USA for the finals series, set to be held in Denver, Colorado, and Salt Lake City, Utah.
Flying Fijians Squad for Pacific Nations Cup 2025
Forwards:
Eroni Mawi, Haereti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Samu Tawake, Meli Tawake, Tevita Ikanivere, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Zuriel Togiatama, Isoa Nasilasila, Temo Mayanavanua, Mesake Vocevoce, Etonia Waqa, Elia Canakaivata, Motikiai Murray, Isoa Tuwai*, Bill Mata, Kitione Salawa
Backs:
Philip Baselala, Simione Kuruvoli, Sam Wye, Kemu Valetini, Caleb Muntz, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Inia Tabuavou, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre*, Ponipate Loganimasi, Taniela Rakuro, Semi Radradra, Isaiah Armstrong Ravula, Seta Tamanivalu
