Sam Matavesi and Temo Mayanavanua are set to take on France this weekend as Fiji play their penultimate Rugby World Cup warm-up match.
The Northampton Saints forward pair will both begin the game at Stade de la Beaujoire on the bench, after featuring in the Flying Fijian’s 35-12 victory over Japan two weeks ago.
Matavesi will earn his 25th Fiji cap should he enter the action from amongst the replacements, with Saints’ summer signing Mayanavanua set to make his 12th international appearance on Saturday (19 August, kick-off: 8.05pm BST).
Fiji head coach Simon Raiwalui said: “This is one of the best opportunities to test ourselves in various areas. The whole team has been working hard for the past few days since arriving at Pornic and we are ready for the match.
“It’s a huge game for us as France have been playing really good rugby and while World Cup is here, there is a lot of interest in rugby and in the French team who are always a tough opponent to beat.”
FRANCE vs FIJI
Saturday 19 August, 2023
Stade de la Beaujoire, France
Kick-off: 8.05pm (BST)
15 Sireli Maqala
14 Josua Tuisova
13 Iosefo Masi
12 Semi Radradra (c)
11 Vinaya Habosi
10 Caleb Muntz
9 Frank Lomani
1 Eroni Mawi
2 Tevita Ikanivere
3 Mesake Doge
4 Isoa Nasilasila
5 Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta
6 Meli Derenalagi
7 Levani Botia
8 Viliame Mata
Replacements:
16 Sam Matavesi
17 Peni Ravai
18 Luke Tagi
19 Temo Mayanavanua
20 Albert Tuisue
21 Simione Kuruvoli
22 Jiuta Wainiqolo
23 Ilaisa Droasese
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