11 Sep 2007

Fiji has named experienced yet rookie Rugby World Cup side

9:37 am on 11 September 2007

Fijian rugby coach, Ilivasi Tabua has named an experienced yet novice World Cup side to take on Japan in its first world cup match in Tolouse on Thursday morning New Zealand time.

Tabua has named nine players to start their first ever Cup game while another six players on the reserve bench could also get their first taste of world cup action.

But reserve halfback, Jone Daunivucu, is the lone uncapped player in the 22-man side.

Meanwhile Tonga captain, Nili Latu, has been cleared of recent hamstring problems and will lead his side against USA on Thursday morning in Montpellier.

Just five of Tonga's starting fifteen have had Cup experience.

Taufa'ao Filise will miss the USA match as the prop has returned home to Tonga following the death of his father.