2 weeks Ago By Fiji Sun News
Fiji rugby sevens utility back Ponipate Loganimasi is tipped to make his Test debut for the Flying Fijians in tomorrow’s Pacific Nations Cup grand-final against hosts Japan at the Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka. This was after Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne last night named Ilaisa Droasese to replace Epeli Momo on the wing, which opened up the spot for Loganimasi to start on the bench. “He’s training very well and he looks awesome,” Byrne said of Loganimasi last weekend as he was hopeful of giving the Olympic Games silver medallist a chance to make his Test debut.
Byrne said there has been healthy competition among the players for a spot in the Match 23 squad. Also, forcing their way back into the Match 23 squad is rookie lock Mesake Vocevoce and prop Meli Tuni. Vocevoce missed the 22-3 semi-final win over USA due to the death of his dad while Tuni replaces the injured Peni Ravai.
Flying Fijians utility back Ilaisa Droasese. Photo: FRU Media “Preparation has been great the weather’s been quite hot and humid,” Byrne said. “The team is very well-organised and we want to do what we’re able to do.
” Byrne said the team had the same intensive training with the energy levels reserved for the weekend. “There are players who’ve been carrying a couple of injuries like Peni Ravai last week and Selestino Ravutaumada. Other than that, the players have been hanging on.
” Byrne said Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula has been superb at fullback. “We only got eyes on this Saturday’s final against Japan.” The match kicks-off at 10.
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