Expect a thrilling exchange upfront when the Vodafone Flying Fijians take on the Ikale Tahi tomorrow in the 2015 World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup opener.

This was the word from Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer Radrodro Tabualevu.

He reminded that it was the Tongan forwards that laid the platform in their historic win against France at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

“Tonga is made up predominantly of international players who are playing overseas, very much like us,” Tabualevu said.

“So it’s going to be a very interesting game, particularly up the front. They have their forward set that dominated the French scrum in the last World Cup.

“Tonga is coming in with a very, very experienced forward pack and we’d like to think that we acquitted ourselves well last week. So it’s going to be a cracker of a game.”

With Vereniki Goneva taking up the captaincy in Akapusi Qera’s absence and Ben Volavola starting at second five-eight, Tabualevu said the changes were a part of their strategy towards the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

“You can see there are a few changes. Coach McKee is obviously testing out his combinations and he’s taking the opportunity to try out a few of our combinations as a lead-up to the World Cup. But at the same time, it is going to be very competitive.”

With the rest of the tournament scheduled to take place overseas, Tabualevu urged fans to take their final chance to watch the national side in their final home game.

“Once again, urging our fans. This is the last time we’ll see our players in action in Fiji before the World Cup. So, we’re looking forward to a good turnout and a big cheer from the crowd.”

The match kicks off at 3pm at the ANZ Stadium in Laucala Bay, Suva.

Vodafone Flying Fijians line-up: 1. Campese Ma’afu, 2. Sunia Koto (vice-captain), 3. Manasa Saulo, 4. Tevita Cavubati, 5. Leone Nakarawa, 6. Dominiko Waqaniburotu, 7. Malakai Ravulo, 8. Masi Matadigo, 9. Henry Seniloli, 10. Ben Volavola, 11. Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 12. Levani Botia, 13. Vereniki Goneva (captain), 14. Waisea Nayacalevu, 15. Kini Murimurivalu.

Reserves: Talemaitoga Tuapati, Peni Ravai, Taniela Koroi, Nemia Soqeta, Peceli Yato, Nikola Matawalu, Josh Matavesi, Metuisela Talebula.

Feedback: eroni.tuinaceva@fijisun.com.fj