Big debuts for Drua in home opener

Virimi Vakatawa, Manasa Mataele, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa and Temo Mayanavanua will make their Swire Shipping Fijian Drua debuts when they start in Saturday’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific opener against Moana Pasifika at Churchill Park, Lautoka.

The quartet headline a Round 1 matchday 23 named by head coach Glen Jackson, with five players set to pull on the Drua jersey for the first time in front of a home crowd.

Former French international Vakatawa will start at inside centre, while former Super Rugby Pacific champion Mataele has been named on the right wing. Former Wallaby Fines-Leleiwasa will steer the side from halfback.

Flying Fijian lock Mayanavanua not only makes his Drua debut but will also co-captain the side alongside Frank Lomani.

Churchill Park is expected to host a strong turnout as the Drua launch their 2026 campaign against Pacific rivals Moana Pasifika.

Up front, Haereiti Hetet starts at loosehead prop, with Mesake Doge at tighthead and Zuriel Togiatama at hooker for his 38th Super Rugby Pacific appearance.

Isoa Nasilasila partners Mayanavanua in the second row. Mesake Vocevoce shifts to blindside flanker, Kitione Salawa takes the openside role and Elia Canakaivata starts at No. 8.

In the backline, Fines-Leleiwasa links with Kemu Valetini at flyhalf. Ponipate Loganimasi starts on the left wing, with Mataele on the right. Vakatawa combines in midfield with Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, while Ilaisa Droasese has been named at fullback.

On the bench, Penaia Cakobau could also make his debut as back-up hooker. Experienced prop Peni Ravai provides loosehead cover, with Samuela Tawake at tighthead. Joseva Tamani and Isoa Tuwai complete the forward reserves.

Jackson has opted for versatility among the backline replacements, naming Lomani, Isikeli Rabitu and Epeli Momo.

The Drua will be aiming to open their season with a strong performance at their Lautoka home ground.