Ratuniyarawa named in Fiji side to take on Samoa

Api Ratuniyarawa has been included in Vern Cotter’s Fiji squad for the final matchup of the Pacific Nations Cup against Samoa.

The Flying Fijians will take on former Exile Seilala Mapusua’s Manu Somoa side at Churchill Park, Lautoka at 4.30am BST.

Irish’s new signing starts at 4 and is accompanied in the pack by former Exile Albert Tuisue, as well as many other Gallagher Premiership talents including Sam Matavesi of Northampton Saints and Saracens’ Eroni Mawi.

Ratuniyarawa touched down for a short-range try in the second round of fixtures against Australia A, a game in which Fiji were defeated 32-18 at Churchill Park.

A whitewash, five-try win over a star-studded Tonga outfit in the tournament opener for Fiji has enabled them to not only boast a tournament-best +22 try difference, but also be in with a shout of winning the cup.

With it all to play for in the final round of games, Samoa currently occupy top spot in the Pacific Nations Cup standings with 10 points, with Australia A on 7, Fiji on 5 and Tonga with 0 at present.

Tonga take on Australia A in a preceding fixture at Churchill Park, kicking-off at 1am BST with both games available on the World Rugby website.

Vodafone Flying Fijians V Samoa squad

1 Eroni Mawi

2 Sam Matavesi

3 Manasa Saulo

4 Apisalome Ratuniyarawa

5 Tevita Ratuva

6 Isoa Nasilasila

7 Rusiate Nasove

8 Albert Tuisue

9 Frank Lomani

10 Ben Volavola

11 Vinaya Habosi

12 Vilimoni Botitu

13 Waisea Nayacalevu {c}

14 Jiuta Wainiqolo

15 Setareki Tuicuvu

Reserves

16 Tevita Ikanivere

17 Haereiti Hetet

18 Luke Tagi

19 Temo Mayanavanua

20 Kitione Kamikamica

21 Peni Matawalu

22 Setareki Tamanivalu

23 Josua Tuisova