Savusavu lad and France based outside center Albert Vulivuli will use his debut Test match for the Flying Fijians on Sunday as an opportunity to try to impress the coaching staff for a spot in next year’s Rugby World Cup.
The 25-year-old Racing Metro player who was brought into the team as a replacement for Kameli Ratuvou, has been picked to start in the number 13 jumper ahead of the regular players in the Fiji team.
Vulivuli’s presence has seen coach Samu Domoni Jnr shift veteran Seru Rabeni to inside centre while Sireli Naqelevuki moves out wide to the wing.
Manager Talemo Waqa said this is a chance for Vulivuli to show that he can make the team to New Zealand next year.
The Fiji team that was announced this morning has the likes of 2007 Rugby World Cup players like Wame Lewaravu, Semisi Naevo, Jone Qovu, Akapusi Qera, Sisa Koyamaibole, Seremaia Bai, Seru Rabeni and Norman Ligairi in the lineup.
The Flying Fijians will open their Europe Tour against France on Sunday at 6am.
Meanwhile, in other international test matches this weekend, Samoa plays Ireland also on Sunday, South Africa takes on Wales and Australia will face England.
All three matches start at 3.30am while at 6.15am New Zealand takes on Scotland.
Story by: Dreu Vukailagi
Vulivuli to make debut
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