Five local players raked in for Vodafone Fijiana test match against Japan

Vodafone Fijiana 15s head coach Inoke Male has unveiled his 28-player squad for two upcoming test matches against Japan scheduled later this month

Coach Male has been impressed by the performance of five players from the ANZ Marama Championship competition earlier this year who he has included in the mix.

The talents, include Salanieta Nabuli (Navosa), Tiana Robanakadavu (Suva), Kiniti Sala (Yasawa), Merewairita Naivosa (Nadroga) and Atelaite Buna (Nadi), who will potentially make their debut for the national team, with the guidance of the experienced players.

Coach Male said he was impressed that the new players have showcased their abilities during training and have rightfully earned their spots in the team.

“We are happy to have a few girls who are on the national team for the first time, they have proven themselves and deserve to wear the white colours,” said Male.

The list also sees the renowned 7s star Rusila Nagasau who is making a permanent change into the 15’s code and the return of 2022 Fijiana Drua flanker Ema Adivitaloga.

A timely addition into the squad sees Karalaini Naisewa, Nunia Uluikadavu, Keleni Marawa, and Luisa Tisolo, who recently completed their Fiji Navy recruitment course a week ago.

Male said, “It is a different squad with different combinations expected so the Japan test is good for the girls to get some game time in before we play in the WXV3 later next month.”

The Vodafone Fijiana 15’s team is set to compete in two matches against Japan, with the first scheduled for September 10th, followed by the second on September 16th.

TEAM LIST:

Naisewa Karalaini

Nabuli Salanieta Adi Drodronasiga *

Robanakadavu Tiana *

Rasolea Siteri Vuanimasei

Marama Litia

Marawa Keleni

Korovata Ana Nadovu

Narokete Doreen Mere Karamatana

Serevi Asinate Grace B Lagilagimaijapani

Daunimoala Nunia

Waisega Sulita Colaisu

Rotagavira Adi Fulori

Leweniqila Sereima Dibula

Nakesa Mereoni

Tinanivalu Teresia

Senikarivi Evivi Radinivuna

Adivitaloga Ema

Kinita Sala *

Ravutia Jennifer Goodsir

Neivosa Merewairita *

Milinia Adita Christine

Cumu Merewai

Nagasau Rusila

Railumu Setaita Natai Dakunaikorocau

Moceisawana Laisani

Vosadrau Wainikiti

Tisolo Luisa Basei

Ralivanawa Atelaite Buna *