Salesi Rayasi to make Fiji debut against Australia in Sunday's rugby test
, a former New Zealand rugby sevens player, is set to make his test debut for Fiji, following in the footsteps of his father,
Filipe Rayasi
, when he starts at fullback in Sunday's clash against Australia in Newcastle.
Rayasi, now playing for RC Vannes in France, is one of two uncapped players named in
Mick Byrne
's match-day squad, alongside Fijian Drua scrumhalf
Philip Baselala
, who could debut off the bench.
The 27-year-old previously made 50 Super Rugby appearances for the Hurricanes and was part of New Zealand's sevens squad from 2018 to 2020.
Choosing to represent Fiji is a personal and symbolic move for Rayasi, honoring his heritage and his father, who earned 13 caps for the Pacific island nation, primarily at fullback - the same position his son will now occupy.
Fiji are aiming to secure their first win on Australian soil in over 70 years as they face the Wallabies on Sunday, buoyed by their memorable 22-15 victory over Australia at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
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Head coach Mick Byrne has made significant changes to the side that last took the field in November, when they suffered a heavy 52-17 defeat to Ireland. Eight new faces have been introduced to the starting XV, including Bristol Bears' Bill Mata, who starts at number eight, pushing Elia Canakaivata to openside flanker. Simione Kuruvoli replaces Frank Lomani at scrumhalf, while
Tevita Ikanivere
retains the captaincy after co-leading the side in Dublin.
The midfield pairing of Iosefo Masi from Fijian Drua and Racing 92 powerhouse Josua Tuisova adds physicality and flair, posing a serious threat to Australia's center combination of Joseph Suaalii and Len Ikitau.
Team:
15-Salesi Rayasi, 14-Kalaveti Ravouvou, 13-Iosefo Masi, 12-Josua Tuisova, 11-Jiuta Wainiqolo, 10-Caleb Muntz, 9-Simione Kuruvoli, 8-Bill Mata, 7-Elia Canakaivata, 6-Lekima Tagitagivalu, 5-Temo Mayanavanua, 4-Isoa Nasilasila, 3-Peni Ravai, 2-Tevita Ikanivere (capt), 1-Eroni Mawi
Replacements:
16-Sam Matavesi, 17-Haereiti Hetet, 18-Mesake Doge, 19-Mesake Vocevoce, 20-Albert Tuisue, 21-Philip Baselala, 22-Isaiah Ravula, 23-Sireli Maqala
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