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Matavesi starts in Fiji's final test of the summer

Sam Matavesi will make his second start of the summer as Fiji play the final back-to-back clash with New Zealand in Hamilton on Saturday. 

The Saints hooker retains his place in a largely unchanged Flying Fijian pack, making his 17th appearance for the Pacific Island side in their final Test of the summer. 

But following the side's 57-23 reverse to the All Blacks last weekend, Matavesi insists the side are determined to turn that result around with another gutsy performance this weekend.

"Last week was good in some areas but in the end we still lost by 50+ points," the 29-year-old said.

"So if we don't back it up this weekend, that good performance means nothing last week. As a team, it's a massive challenge but at the end of the day, that's why we're here. It'll be good."

ALL BLACKS vs FIJI
Saturday 17 July, 2021
Hamilton, New Zealand
Kick-off: 7.05pm (local time)

15 Kini Murimurivalu
14 Setareki Tuicuvu
13 Waisea Nayacalevu
12 Eneriko Buliruarua
11 Nemani Nadolo
10 Ben Volavola
9 Frank Lomani

1 Peni Ravai
2 Sam Matavesi
3 Mesake Doge
Temo Mayanavanua
5 Leone Nakarawa (capt)
6 Johnny Dyer
7 Mesulame Kunavula
8 Peceli Yato

Replacements:
16 Mesulame Dolokoto
17 Eroni Mawi
18 Leeroy Atalifo
19 Albert Tuisue
20 Kitione Kamikamica
21 Moses Sorovi
22 Teti Tela
23 Manasa Mataele

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