Pathway pays off

The selection of three former Suva rugby players into the Flying Fijians squad for the Pacific Nations Cup is a testament to the club's development pathway.

Suva Rugby Union (SRU) director of rugby Saiasi Fuli praised the selection of Terio Tamani, Inoke Ravuiwasa and Saracens prop Vi­likesa Nairau.

The trio are among seven un­capped players named in the squad for the Pacific Nations Cup matches in Japan from September 12-19.

"This call-up is a true testament to their dedication, talent and hard work, while highlighting the strength of Suva Rugby Union. Congratulations on their selec­tion," Fuli said.

Fuli said SRU had remained con­sistent in setting the benchmark by providing quality player pathways.

"It is from quality, competitive club games straight into a seamless transition to the provincial level, and now onto the global stage," he said.

Ravuiwasa recently signed with the Fijian Drua for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season. The tight­head prop is playing for Taveuni in this year's Skipper Cup competi­tion.

"Ravuiwasa always sets the bench­mark by playing every week and leading by example with his scrum­maging prowess before he moved to Canberra early this year," Fuli said.

"The same can be said for Nairau, who at a young age, a HPU product and straight into the Suva set-up, is now enjoying his trade with Sara­cens," he said.

Nairau currently plays for Sara­cens in England, while Fiji sevens playmaker Tamani joined the Ka­davu rugby team this year.

"Terio is a workaholic and always, a true servant of Suva rugby, but we believe he should have been in the Drua set-up three years ago due to his high standards and good game management skills," Fuli said.

The teams competing in the PNC are Fiji, Canada, the United States and hosts Japan.

Flying Fijians Squad

Forwards: Livai Natave, Peni Ra­vai, Meli Tuni, Tevita Ikanivere, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Penaia Cakob­au, Mesake Doge, Samuela Tawake, Vilikesa Nairau, Inoke Ravuiwasa, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua, Joseva Tamani, Kitione Salawa, Motikiai Mur­ray, Isoa Tuwai, Elia Canakaivata.

Backs: Frank Lomani, Sam Wye, Philip Baselala, Terio Tamani, Caleb Muntz, Isaiah Armstrong-Ra­vula, Kemu Valetini, Joji Nasova, Maleli Nauvasi, Manasa Mataele, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Tuidraki Sa­musamuvodre, Virimi Vakatawa, Isaac Ratumaitavuki Kneepkens, Isikeli Rabitu.