Flying Fijians Make Changes
RULED OUT: Levani Botia (La Rochelle), Peniami Narisia (Brive), Peceli Yato (Clermont), CALLED IN: Api Ratuniyarawa (Northampton Saints), Apisai Naqaliva (Clermont), Zuriel Togiatama (Counties Manukau Steelers) LATE ARRIVAL: Johnny Dyer to sort out his family’s travel arrangement in Dublin
Tuesday 02 November 2021 | 01:21
Veteran Northampton Saints lock Api Ratuniyarawa gets the recall the join the Flying Fijians squad for the November Test matches against Spain, Wales and Georgia. Photo: Northampton Saints
Fijian Drua hooker, Zuriel Togiatama, is expected to make his Test debut for the Flying Fijians this month. This is before making his Super Rugby Pacific debut in February.
Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer, John O’Connor, confirmed yesterday that the New Zealand-based forward has left for Spain to join the Flying Fijians camp.
“He’s coming in to replace Peniame Narisia who is injured,” O’Connor said.
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Also, injured and ruled out of the Flying Fijians squad are back row Peceli Yato and veteran second five-eight Levani Botia.
O’Connor said Northampton Saints centurion Api Ratuniyarawa is coming in for Yato while strong running Clermont centre, Apisai Naqaliva, is stepping in for Botia.
The 35-year-old, Ratuniyarawa has been a consistent performer for the Saints in the Gallagher Premiership while former Fijian 7s hooker Naqaliva has been turning heads during the Top 14 comp for his blockbusting runs and big hits.
O’Connor said, flanker Johnny Dyer is expected to join camp later after sorting out his family’s travelling arrangements.
“Johnny’s family is moving to Europe to join him. They are currently in Dublin where Johnny is sorting out their visas before they move to France.
“He has assured us that once that is done he’ll be joining the team.”
Feedback: simione.haravanua@fijisun.com.fj
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