Botitu Starts At 10 Against Portugal

Fiji have named their team to take on Portugal in Toulouse, with Vilimoni Botitu starting at 10 for only the second time for Fiji in one of six changes to the starting line-up from their last game against Georgia.

The match on Monday morning (7am Fiji time) will be the last in Pool play in Rugby World Cup 2023.

Among head coach Simon Raiwalui’s changes, Temo Manyanavanua is set to make his first Rugby World Cup start, moving up from the bench, while Meli Derenalagi gears up for his World Cup debut, having already made waves in his test debut earlier this year.

Botitu will be in the spotlight as he wears the number 10 jersey for only the second time. Sireli Maqala, with minimal playtime so far, gets his first start.

Levani Botia, the sole survivor from Fiji’s last match against Portugal in 2013, has been in outstanding form as he leads in offloads, defensive rucks (21), and the second most tackles(24).

Fiji needs just one point from the match to confirm second place in Pool C, which would take them equal with Australia but would see them go through on the head-to-head rule, having already beaten Australia.

If Fiji get nothing from the match, a loss with no losing bonus points, Australia will qualify for the quarter-finals as runners-up.

Fiji line-up:

1 Eroni Mawi

2 Samuel Matavesi

3 Luke Tagi

4 Isoa Nasilasila

5 Temo Mayanavanua

6 Meli Derenalagi

7 Levani Botia

8 Viliame Mata

9 Frank Lomani

10 Vilimoni Botitu

11 Vinaya Habosi

12 Josua Tuisova

13 Waisea Nayacalevu (c)

14 Selesitino Ravutaumada

15 Sireli Maqala

Replacements:

16 Tevita Ikanivere

17 Peni Ravai

18 Mesake Doge

19 Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta

20 Albert Tuisue

21 Peni Matawalu

22 Teti Tela

23 Iosefo Masi

Feedbacks: karalaini.waqanidrola@fijisun.com.fj