The Tongan Ikale Tahi expect a physical match against the Vodafone Flying Fijians in the first round of the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup this  Saturday at the ANZ Stadium.

Arriving at the Nausori International Airport last night, head coach Mana Otai said: “Fiji has had a game under their belt and there is always a great rivalry so I will be expecting no difference this weekend.

“But I know they have the advantage of already playing against a very good Maori All Black side, so we are definitely in for a physical encounter.

“Last time we were in Lautoka, we didn’t do quite well, so in the back of our minds we still remember that game and we are hoping to improve this time around.

“I think at the same time we are looking long term as well to the Rugby World Cup, so it’s all part of the preparation for the World Cup, we are looking at the bigger picture.”

The squad will feature seven new caps.

“The boys are looking forward to their first game,” Otai said.

“We have seven debutants in the team and I am confident in them going up against Fiji this weekend.

“Even though they are first timers they are selected in Ikale Tahi because they are good enough. I am sure they will be giving the Fijian side a good run.”

The Vodafone Flying Fijians will take on Tonga at 3pm at the ANZ Stadium, Suva, on Saturday.

Feedback: justine.mannan@fijisun.com.fj