23 Sep 2015

Flying Fijians optimistic for Wallabies clash

3:34 pm on 23 September 2015

Fiji rugby coach John McKee believes his team may have more success against Australia's high-tempo game in Thursday morning's Rugby World Cup clash in Cardiff, than they did facing England's more structured approach.

The Fijians were beaten 35-11 in the tournament's opening match but McKee says the Wallabies' dynamic, high-speed game will maybe suit them better.

England vs Fiji

England vs Fiji Photo: AFP

McKee has made four changes to his forward pack for tomorrow's game but stuck with the same backline and believes it can cause the Australian defence some problems.

Fiji rugby coach John McKee announces his team to face Australia at the World Cup.

Fiji rugby coach John McKee announces his team to face Australia at the World Cup. Photo: Fiji Rugby

He says they've also been inspired by watching Japan's upset win over South Africa, and suggests the gap between the top nations and the tier two teams is closing.

Meanwhile Wallabies centre Tevita Kuridrani is looking forward to taking on a familiar face....his cousin Nemani Nadolo.

Kuridrani, who was born and raised in Fiji, says he's had a few chats with Nadolo earlier in the week about how proud their family is back home and for them be here playing against each other on a big stage.

2015 Rugby World Cup Group A, Twickenham, London 18/9/2015
Fiji’s Nemani Nadolo is all over Anthony Watson of England
Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/James Crombie

Fiji’s Nemani Nadolo is all over Anthony Watson of England Photo: Photosport

Nadolo made an instant impact on the World Cup when he lifted his hulking frame above England winger Anthony Watson to score his team's first try and landed a long-range penalty.