Flying Fijians named for Maori test

Former HSBC Sevens Series star Benito Masilevu will make his fifteen-a-side debut for Fiji against the New Zealand Maori in Suva on Saturday. The Brive winger is one of two uncapped players in the match day roster, with new Crusaders signing Ben Volavola named on the bench after only just arriving in country during the week.

Late arrivals have also affected the composition of the back row, with captain Akapusi Qera lining up in the less familiar no8 jersey, and Malakai Ravulo starting at openside flanker. Nemia Kenatale and Josh Matavesi are the starting halfbacks, with Glasgow speedster Niko Matawalu set to be unleashed as an impact reserve.

Bayonne centre Gaby Lovobalavu and La Rochelle fullback Kini Murimurivalu return to the Flying Fijian lineup for the first time since the 2011 World Cup. Crusaders powerhouse Nemani Nadolo lines up in his Super Rugby position of wing after winning his previous 15 caps for Fiji in the midfield.

Fiji have played 28 matches against the Maori since their first in 1938, winning seven and drawing two. Their last victory came in Dunedin in 1957. The two teams last met in Lautoka in 2008, with the Maori edging a close match by a score of 11-7. Fiji traditionally award full test caps for the fixture.

The Flying Fijians begin their Pacific Nations Cup against Tonga on July 18, also in Suva.

FIJI vs NZ MAORI
1 Campese Ma’afu 2 Tale Tuapati 3 Manasa Saulo 4 Api Ratuniyarawa 5 Leone Nakarawa 6 Dominiko Waqaniburotu 7 Malakai Ravulo 8 Akapusi Qera (capt.) 9 Nemia Kenatale 10 Josh Matavesi 11 Nemani Nadolo 12 Gabiriele Lovobalavu 13 Vereniki Goneva 14 Benito Masilevu 15 Kini Murimurivalu

16 Vili Veikoso 17 Peni Ravai 18 Isei Colati 19 Nemia Soqeta 20 Masi Matadigo 21 Niko Matawalu 22 Ben Volavola 23 Napolioni Nalaga