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Northampton Saints' Sam Matavesi starts for Fiji this weekend
Getty Images
Northampton Saints' Sam Matavesi starts for Fiji this weekend
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International

Matavesi named on the bench for Fiji against Tonga

Northampton Saints hooker Sam Matavesi will look to make an impact off the bench for Fiji in their opening Test match of the summer against Tonga.

The 30-year-old will make his 21st international appearance if he enters the action at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on Saturday.

“We need to give players opportunities and at the same time we need to give players coming into the camp late some time to stimulate what we have done and get the feeling of the group,” said Head Coach Vern Cotter. “The players who have been here longer had that added advantage.

“Like all other games against Tonga, this match will also be very physical for the initial 20 to 30 minutes – therefore we need to be ready for that confrontation, the aggressive nature of their rugby, plus we need to be smart and create opportunities, be accurate, calm and composed.

“We play at home and we want to play as a team and for each other and put in a good performance.”

Fiji squad to play Tonga

15 Setareki Tuicuvu
14 Jiuta Wainiqolo
13 Waisea Nayacalevu (c)
12 Kalaveti Ravouvou
11 Vinaya Habosi
10 Teti Tela
9 Frank Lomani

1 Haereiti Hetet
2 Tevita Ikanivere
3 Manasa Saulo
4 Isoa Nasilasila
5 Tevita Ratuva
6 Mesualme Kunavula
7 Rusiate Nasove
8 Albert Tuisue

Replacements:
16 Sam Matavesi
17 Eroni Mawi
18 Luke Tagi
19 Apisalome Ratuniyarawa
20 Kitione Kamikamica
21 Peni Matawalu
22 Setareki Tamanivalu
23 Manasa Mataele

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