Vodafone Flying Fijians coach John McKee is leaving his players guessing until the last moment ahead of the Rugby World Cup squad announcement this evening.
According to our analysis, McKee is likely to name 18 forwards and 13 backs.
The backs and forwards split sees three hookers, five props, four locks and six loose forwards while the backs are expected to have three scrumhalves, two flyhalves, four midfielders and four outside backs.
The five props that were outstanding from the PNC and training are Campese Ma’afu, Isei Colati, Manasa Saulo, Peni Ravai and Dan Koroi while the hookers will be Sunia Koto, Tuapati Talemaitoga and Viliame Veikoso.
PNC top try scorer Leone Nakarawa is expected to be the first name in the list in the locking position alongside Nemia Soqeta, Tevita Cavubati and Api Ratuniyarawa.
In the flankers, all the six players who are currently training are expected to be named including captain Akapusi Qera, Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Malakai Ravulo, Peceli Yato, Netani Talei and Sakiusa Matadigo.
McKee is expected to take Henry Seniloli, Nemia Kenatale and Nikola Matawalu for the scrum half position while Ben Volavola and Josh Matavesi are expected to assist each other in the flyhalf duties.
Meanwhile, the position that everyone has been talking about is the midfield which sees Gabby Lovobalavu, Lepani Botia, Vereniki Goneva and Waisea Nayacalevu fighting for a starting spot at the World Cup.
In the outside backs, Napolioni Nalaga is expected to miss out which will allow McKee to pick Asaeli Tikoirotuma, Kini Murimurivalu, Metuisela Talebula and Crusaders robust winger Nemani Nadolo.
The team will be announced at 7 tonight at the Grand Pacific Hotel.
Stay with us for that.
Fiji will play England in Twickenham in the opening match of the Rugby World Cup at 7am Saturday 19th September.
