Fiji Airways Flying Fijians loose head prop Campese Ma’afu be­lieves the senior players in the forwards need to lead by example in the June Test matches against Geor­gia, Samoa and Tonga.

Speaking to SUNsports, Ma’afu said he was impressed with the combina­tion of players selected for the Test matches against Samoa, Georgia and Tonga.

“Looking at the calibre of the team we have talents in all areas and a lot of depth as well,” he said.

“I’m sure we will be ready for any game that comes our way, we will still be pushing forward.”

Ma’afu said as a forward they need to lead from the front.

“In the forwards the main thing for us is how we come together, it’s very im­portant that the old heads must step-up and lead from the front.

“As we do that it will be good for our backs. We just get our combination right then we should be alright,” he added.

The Tongan native who has maternal links to Tavuki in Kadavu made his Test debut against Australia in 2010.

This literally saw him going head to head with his older brother Salesi, who was also making his Test debut for Aus­tralia in the number three shirt. Ma’afu got his first try for Fiji later that year in the clash against Tonga.

“It’s good to be in camp, a lot of new faces, there are three big challengers in front of us so it will be tough to go against Samoa, Georgia and Tonga. “For us it’s just the matter of training together and strengthening our bond.”

The Fijians face Samoa in their Pacif­ic Nations Cup opener at the ANZ Sta­dium , Suva, on June 9 and Georgia on June 16 at the ANZ Stadium at 3:30pm and the final Test against Tonga on June 23 at Churchill Park in Lautoka.

Squad;

Loose Head Prop – Campese Maáfu, Peni Ravai, Eroni Mawi.

Hooker – Tuapati Talemaitoga, Tuvere Veremalua, Ratunaisa Navuma.

Tight Head Prop– Ropate Rinakama, Kalivati Tawake, Manasa Saulo.

Lock – Sikeli Nabou, Leone Nakarawa, Api Ratuniyarawa, Albert Tuisue.

Back Row – Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Viliame Mata, Mosese Voka, Nemani Nagusa, Akapusi Qera.

Halfback– Henry Seniloli, Frank Lom­ani, Serupepeli Vularika

First Five– Ben Volavola, Alivereti Vei­tokani

Centre– Jale Vatubua, Sevanaia Gala­la, Semi Radrara

Wing– Vereniki Goneva, Benito Masi­levu, Josua Tuisova, Nemani Nadolo, Timoci Nagusa

Fullback– Kini Murimurivalu

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Edited by Osea Bola

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