1 Oct 2015

Fiji make six changes for Wales clash

11:58 am on 1 October 2015

Asaeli Tikoirotuma has replaced the suspended Nemani Nadolo on the left wing for Fiji's crucial Pool A clash with Wales on Friday morning.

Nadolo was banned for one week for a dangerous tip tackle in last week's defeat to Australia.

Fiji winger Aseli Tikoirotuma looks for support in their 2015 Rugby World Cup match against Australia.

Fiji winger Aseli Tikoirotuma looks for support in their 2015 Rugby World Cup match against Australia. Photo: AFP

Head coach John McKee has made five other changes to the run-on team, which is Fiji's most experienced starting fifteen ever at a Rugby World Cup with 392 caps.

Timoci Nagusa starts on the right wing, just days after replacing the injured Waisea Nayacalevu in the Fiji squad.

Lepani Botia will make his Rugby World Cup debut at second five, in place of Gabiriele Lovobalavu, while Nemia Kenatale gets his first start of the tournament at halfback after Nikola Matawalu suffered bruising to his lower back.

In the forwards, Sunia Koto comes in at hooker while Dominiko Waqaniburotu returns from suspension on the blindside flank.

Fiji assistant coach Tabai Matson said it had been a difficult start to the tournament, following losses to England and Australia, but the team remained upbeat.

"The mountain just got steeper - now we're relying on other people to fall over - so it's business as usual for us but, clearly when you play the world-ranked teams two, three and four in 13 days, it was always going to be a tough month for us.

"In saying that, we're still enjoying ourselves and we know we've got a great opportunity still in front of us and we're really excited about the Welsh game coming up".

Captain Akapusi Qera will also win his 50th test cap at the Millenium Stadium.

Fiji squad:

1. Campese Ma'afu

2. Sunia Koto

3. Manasa Saulo

4. Tevita Cavubati

5. Leone Nakarawa

6. Dominiko Waqaniburotu

7. Akapusi Qera (Captain)

8. Netani Talei

9. Nemia Kenatale

10. Ben Volavola

11. Aseli Tikoirotuma

12. Lepani Botia

13. Vereniki Goneva

14. Timoci Nagusa

15. Metuisela Talebula

Replacements:

16. Viliame Veikoso

17. Peni Ravia

18. Leeroy Atalifo

19. Nemia Soqeta

20. Malakai Ravulo

21. Henry Seniloli

22. Joshua Matavesi

23. Kini Murimurivalu