Fiji reveal blockbuster squad: Formidable talent ends baffling hiatus after World Cup withdrawal while ex-England forward snubbed for former All Black
Fiji reveal blockbuster squad: Formidable talent ends baffling hiatus after World Cup withdrawal while ex-England forward snubbed for former All Black
A star-studded Fiji squad has been named ahead of their highly anticipated inaugural Nations Championship campaign.
Many huge names have been included in this squad, including the ageing Levani Botia, Semi Radradra and Sam Matavesi. However, not all old heads have made the cut, with former England number eight Nathan Hughes and ex-France centre Virimi Vakatawa missing from the roster, despite previous inclusion in the wider 50-man squad.
Elsewhere, the incredibly talented Frank Lomani is expected to control the Fijian pack from scrum-half, linchpin Caleb Muntz will likely be handed the keys at 10, and Bordeaux-Begles’ Salesi Rayasi will add real class from full-back.
The major return to the squad comes in the form of dynamic back-rower Peceli Yato, however. The 33-year-old withdrew from the national squad before the 2023 World Cup and has not been seen in international colours since.
His call-up to this summer’s Nations Championship will complete his much-anticipated comeback ahead of next year’s World Cup.
“I was happy. Like any other Fijian rugby player, it’s a privilege to wear the white jersey,” he said in an article published on the Fiji Rugby Union website, crediting “families and especially fans” for his return.
Formerly of Clermont, Yato signed for USA Perpignan in 2025 and has since become an important and versatile member of the squad, able to step in at both number eight and lock.
Want more from Planet Rugby? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for world-class coverage you can trust
Flying Fijians squad
Forwards: Eroni Mawi, Atunaisa Sokobale, Peni Ravai, Luke Tagi, Tim Hoyt, Tevita Ikanivere, Sam Matavesi, Zuriel Togiatama; Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua, Tevita Ratuva, Lekima Tagitagivalu, Kitione Salawa, Elia Canakaivata, Levani Botia, Pita-Gus Sowakula, Peceli Yato
Backs: Frank Lomani, Simione Kuruvoli, Sam Wye; Caleb Muntz, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Josua Tuisova, Filimoni Botitu, Selestino Ravutaumada, Semi Radradra, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Vinaya Habosi, Salesi Rayasi, Vuate Karawalevu
Acting head coach Senirusi Seruvakula has claimed to have selected a “balanced squad blending proven experience with in-form players who are currently performing at the highest level for their respective clubs.”
Releasing a statement on social media, Seruvakula said: “I have chosen a team of players who have experience and are playing some of the best rugby in their current clubs.
“This is a tough campaign, but I am confident this group has the talent, the heart, and the discipline to represent Fiji with pride.”
The Flying Fijians are set for three blockbuster Test matches on European soil in July: • July 4 v Wales – Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff, Wales • July 11 v England – Hill Dickinson Stadium, Liverpool, England • July 18 v Scotland – Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, Scotland