FORMER Flying Fijian prop Sikeli Gavidi has been given the nod to lead Nadi when they face defending Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy holders Nadroga at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka tomorrow.
Gavidi’s experience in the scrums will be the key to Nadi’s challenge as they take on the champions in the third challenge of the season.
Gavidi, who made his debut for the Flying Fijians during the 2005 Europe tour, will have a huge role to play when they face a very experienced Nadroga pack.
From the team that was thrashed by Nadroga 51-15 in last year’s challenge, only four players return to the starting line-up tomorrow.
The four are prop Joave Masitabua, skipper Gavidi, halfback Jock Luita and wing Sainivalati Gaunavou. Nadi coach Iliesa Tanivula has named an unknown side with only Gavidi, Aseri Buli, Samu Saqiwa and Setiki Cakau the key players in the forwards and former Fiji Barbarians halfback Luita set to dictate play from the base of the scrum.
Former Flying Fijians Kelepi Ketedromo has been named on the Nadi bench and will be used as an impact player along with former sevens star Pio Tuwai.
Nadi team:
Joave Masitabua, Aseri Buli, Sikeli Gavidi, Inosa Sausau, Samu Saqiwa, Vatili Saqiwa, Senitiki Cakau, Jiuta Takubu, Jock Luita, Vatemo Ravouvou, Filipe Nakosi/ Driu Lalai, Sainivalati Gaunavou, Josua Tuisova, Iliesa Samusamuvodre, Naisau Moriji/ Filipe Nakosi.
Reserves: Isoa Damudamu/Kalaveti Vueti, Leon Kwong, Pio Tuwai, Kelepi Ketedromo, Ron Katonivere, Jonacani Erenavanua, Ilisoni Ratusai