Test Debut Looms For Centres Vota, Ravouvou
Fijian Drua centres Kalaveti Ravouvou and Apisalome Vota are likely to make their Test debut for the Flying Fijians when they take on Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup opener at the ANZ Stadium in Suva on July 2.
This was after Flying Fijians head coach, Vern Cotter, confirmed yesterday that France-based second five eight Vilimoni Botitu may not be in time for the clash.
Botitu is to play for Castres in this weekend’s Top 14 grandfinal.
“The Europe-based players will be coming over, one by one, Botitu is playing the final this weekend, so he won’t be in by Monday,” he said.
Cotter added that Ben Volavola would be in soon after his marriage, while Temo Mayanavanua’s wife recently had a baby.
Former All Black centre Seta Tamanivalu believes that this year’s PNC would be tougher compared to previous years.
The Japanese based-player was among the many players who are eligible to play for their nation of birth after the eligibility rules were amended by World Rugby.
Flying Fijian Team Photo: Waisea Nasokia
Tonga has a number of top players including dual international marquee player Israel Folau, former All Black and Blues halfback Augustine Pulu, Malakai Fekitoa, Charles Piutau, Highlanders’ Fetuli Paea and Moana Pasifika’s outside back Solomone Kata.
To make their Test debut for Samoa are former Wallabies utility back Duncan Paia’aua, Waratahs front row Andrew Tuala, former New Zealand 7s rep Fritz Lee, Lyon No.8 Jordan Taufua and Moana Pasifika’s halfback Ere Enari.
“The worst thing is that the two teams have been struggling for the last two years,” Tamanivalu said.
“Our Samoan and Tongan brothers deserve it because their rugby union is not going really well.
“They probably need the boys to come in, not just to turn on rugby.
“The grassroots and everything they probably get more sponsors for the very reason behind it.
“It’s been going to be tough. It’s really positive rugby for the community something good to watch with some big stars.
“It will make us stronger. The PNC will be tough, as there are a lot of talented players.”
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