Fiji are renowned for their flair and prowess at Sevens rugby, having won the Sevens World Cup twice and producing legends of the game like Waisale Serevi and Marika Vunibaka.
They have not been that successful in the 15-man code, but with their natural flair and quicksilver backs, they are capable of beating the best.
The ‘Flying Fijians’ who are currently ranked ninth in the world, reached the quarterfinals of the World Cup on two occasions – in 1987 and 2007. At the latter tournament they beat Wales 38-34 in a match described by many as one of the best ever, while they nearly shocked eventual champions South Africa in the quarterfinals, before losing 37-20.
In the run-up to this year’s World Cup they had a successful campaign in the Pacific Nations Cup tournament as they won the trophy after beating Samoa 39-29 in the final. They had earlier drawn 30-30 against Samoa in the group stages, while beating Tonga 30-22 and Japan 27-22.
They are captained by flanker Akapusi Qera who will be appearing at his third World Cup, while they have two vice-captains in centre Vereniki Goneva and hooker Sunia Koto.
They once again have some brilliant backs in their squad like Crusaders wing Nemani Nadolo, wing Waisea Nayacalevu, centre Gabiriele Lovobalavu and flyhalf Ben Volavola, while lock forward Leone Nakarawa was the top try scorer at the Pacific Nations Cup with four tries.
Fiji World Cup squad:
Forwards: Lee Roy Atalifo, Isei Colati, Campese Ma’afu, Peni Ravai, Manasa Saulo, Sunia Koto, Tuapati Talemaitoga, Viliame Veikoso, Tevita Cavubati, Leone Nakarawa, Api Ratuniyarawa, Nemia Soqeta, Masi Matadigo, Akapusi Qera (captain), Malakai Ravulo, Netani Talei, Dom Waqaniburotu, Peceli Yato.
Backs: Nemia Kenatale, Nikola Matawalu,Henry Seniloli, Lepani Botia, Gabby Lovobalavu, Josh Matavesi, Ben Volavola, Vereniki Goneva, Kini Murimurivalu, Nemani Nadolo, Waisea Nayacalevu, Metuisela Talebula, Asaeli Tikoirotuma.
Coach: John McKee
Group A
World ranking: 9
Recent results:
Sep 6: Fiji 47 Canada 18, The Stoop
Aug 3: Fiji 39 Samoa 29
July 29: Fiji 27 Japan 22
July 24: Fiji 30 Samoa 30
July 18: Fiji 30 Tonga 22
July 11: Fiji 26 NZ Maoris 27
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
