Veteran Ben Volavola returns to man the No.10 spot in Saturday night’s clash against Japan in Tokyo.

This was announced this morning by FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Simon Raiwalui, as he continues to test combinations by rotating the players.

“It’s good to have Ben Volvavola back in the squad,” Raiwalui said.

“He was nursing a niggling injury for the past few weeks and his experience at number 10 will be a boost against Japan.”

Raiwalui said Japan would be a tough team to beat at home.

“We know Japan is a good team, plays very high tempo of the game and very organised so we are just looking forward to the challenge,” he said.

Eroni Mawi and Luke Tagi retain their places up front at props while Sam Matavesi comes in at hooker.

In the second row, Isoa Nasilasila has been rested. Albert Tuisue and Temo Mayanavanua form the new 0pair of combination at locks.

Lekima Tagitagivalu will be at blindside flanker while Kitione Kamikamica is at openside with Meli Derenalagi moved to No.8.

Simione Kuruvoli is given more game time as he starts at half-back while experienced Volavola returns to first-five eighth.

Raiwalui is testing the centre partnership of Vilimoni Botitu and captain Waisea Nayacalevu.

On the wings are Selestino Ravutaumada and Jiuta Wainiqolo with Sireli Maqala at fullback.

There is no loss of power and experience on the bench with top seasonal players such as Tevita Ikanivere, Peni Ravai, Joseva Tamani, and Frank Lomani on the impact list.

“We have had a quick turnaround following our match against Samoa last weekend.

“As usual, we are still in the preparation phase for Rugby World Cup hence we are testing and rotating our players at certain positions.”

The match kicks-off at 10.15pm (Fiji time).

Line-up: 1. Eroni Mawi (Saracens), 2. Sam Matavesi (Northampton Saints), Luke Tagi (Bayonne), 4. Albert Tuisue (Gloucester), 5. Temo Mayanavanua (Northampton Saints), 6. Lekima Tagitagivalu (Pau), 7. Kitione Kamikamica (Racing 92), 8. Meli Derenalagi (Fijian Drua), 9. Simione Kuruvoli (Fijian Drua), 10. Ben Volavola (Racing 92), 11. Selestino Ravutaumada (Fijian Drua), 12. Vilimoni Botitu (Castres), 13. Waisea Nayacalevu (Toulou), 14. Jiuta Wainiqolo (Toulon), 15. Sireli Maqala (Bayonne).

Reserves: 16. Tevita Ikanivere (Fijian Drua), 17. Peni Ravai (Queensland Reds), 18. Mesake Doge (Fijian Drua), 19. Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta (Fijian Drua), 20. Joseva Tamani (Fijian Drua), 21. Frank Lomani (Fijian Drua), 22. Teti Tela (Fijian Drua), 23. Ilaisa Droasese (Fijian Drua). – FRU Media

Story by: Leone Cabenatabua  

Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj