Flying Fijians head coach Samu Domoni Junior has named a strong backline and a powerful forward pack to face Six Nations champions France this Sunday.

Making his debut in what must be one of the biggest backlines in world rugby is Savusavu lad Albert Vulivuli.

Vulivuli partners with strongman Seru Rabeni in the centres while outside of them will lurk Napolioni Nalaga and Sireli Naqelevuki on the wings.

At fullback is Norman Ligairi, who technical advisor Shannon Fraser believes has been playing some of the best rugby of his career, while the flyhalf berth is manned by the ever reliable Seremaia Bai.

The forwards too, pack a fair bit of size with the back row trio of Semisi Naevo, Akapusi Qera and Sisa Koyamaibole playing together again in Fiji colors for the first time since the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

However a notable absence at lock is Ifereimi Rawaqa who is suffering a slight injury.

Taking Rawaqa's place at lock is Malevu villager Jone Qovu who partners Wame Lewaravu in the engine room.

Meanwhile in the front row Graham Dewes gets the nod ahead of Australian based Campese Maafu.
 
On the bench loose forward Malakai Ravulo has made a strong recovery from a concussion received two weekends ago playing for North Harbour in the ITM Cup and will earn his first cap for Fiji if he gets on the field.

Also on the bench and likely to make his debut against France is Nadroga prop Setefano Somoca.

The starting 15 to take on France include

Graham Dewes, Talemaitoga Tuapati, Deacon Manu, Wame Lewaravu, Jone Qovu, Semisi Saukawa, Akapusi Qera, Sisa Koyamaibole, Nemia Kenatale, Seremaia Bai, Napolioni Nalaga, Seru Rabeni, Albert Vulivuli, Sireli Naqelevuki and Norman Ligairi.


Story by: Dhanjay Deo
Source: FRU