The Fiji Rugby Union has named their 30-member squad to represent the Flying Fijians on next month’s tour to Europe which includes Scarlets prop Deacon Manu who was expected to line up for Wales after qualifying on a residence basis.
The squad includes Mosese Rauluni of Saracens (UK) and Nicky Little of Bath (UK) who have made up a partnership that has spanned almost a decade.
National team selector Mosese Taga revealed the reason behind the inclusion of the two veterans.
"It must be realised that this is not a development tour and both Rauluni and Little remain two of our best players, and host nations demand we field our best team and if we do not then it could affect future tours hence their inclusion," Taga told the Fiji Daily Post.
"Host nations want their stadiums filled so at all times we’ve got to ensure we field our best team, it’s as simple as that."
The other notable inclusion in the team is that of Llanelli Scarlets tight head prop Deacon Manu.
"We’re delighted Deacon Manu has finally put his hand up for Fiji, look around there’s no better tight head prop than him available to represent Fiji," the former Fiji captain added.
"It’s a very crucial position and if we want to win our own balls we need a good tight head otherwise we’ll continue to struggle to win our own ball."
The full 30 member Fiji Rugby team for next month’s Europe tour is:
FORWARDS: Graham Dewes, Aisake Tarogi, Alefoso Yalayalatabua, Deacon Manu, Vili Veikoso, Vereniki Sauturaga, Sireli Ledua, Josefa Domolailai, Wame Lewaravu, Ifereimi Rawaqa, Leone Nakarawa, Akapusi Qera, Asaeli Boko, Jimilai Nakaidawa, Samu Bola, Netani Talei, Jone Qovu
BACKS: Mosese Rauluni, Waisale Vatuvoka, Nicky Little, Jonetani Ratu, Waisale Luveniyali, Seremaia Bai, Kameli Ratuvou, Vereniki Goneva , Filimoni Delasau, Nasoni Roko, Napolioni Nalaga, Norman Ligairi.
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