4 Nov 2008

Rauluni to captain Pacific Islands rugby team

10:35 am on 4 November 2008

The Saracens halfback Mosese Rauluni has been confirmed as captain of the Pacific Islands for their forthcoming Tests against England, France and Italy.

Rauluni, who led Fiji to the quarter-finals of the 2007 Rugby World Cup, will be supported by the dynamic Tongan loose-forward Nili Latu as vice-captain.

The Pacific Islands come together every two years and are embarking on a third tour since 2004 - but they are still chasing a first Test victory.

There have been a number of changes from the original squad announced in September: Samoan prop Kas Lealamanua has been brought in for Soane Tonga'uiha; Ifereimi Rawaqa has been replaced by Paino Hehea; Epi Taione replaces Isireli Naqelevuki and Filipo Levi was brought in last month for Daniel Leo.

Fiji beat Wales to reach the knock-out stages of the World Cup last year and gave South Africa a scare in their quarter-finals, while both Tonga and Samoa proved bruising opponents in England's pool.