TWO secondary school players have forced their way into the Vodafone Fiji Residents side for the Battle of the Bati clash.
Tikiko Noke of Central College and Sikeli Bobo of Ra High School will get an opportunity to rub shoulders with some of the best in the game next week.
Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) development officer Sale Tubuna said they have named a relatively new side, retaining few old hands for the match against New South Wales Country on Wednesday.
Samuela Kunanitu, Apisai Masikerei, Timoci Yauvoli and Atunaisa Turagaiviu are some of the experienced players in the 20-member squad.
Players from the west dominate the team and Tubuna said they picked the squad based on the selection criteria set.
"The selection of these players was based on their performance throughout this season. Consistency was one of the things we looked for in the players and those who have been performing well week in week out were given the nod."
Tubuna said they had selected players who had the capability of gelling well and adapting to their game pattern.
"It's a good squad with a good mix of young and experienced players."
The Fiji Residents team will march into camp on Monday morning at the FNRL headquarters at 57 Richards Rd, Suva.
The Fiji XIII side to face Italy will be selected following the Battle of the Bati.
Fiji Residents: Samuela Kunanitu (East), Ilaitia Volavola (West), Timoci Yauvoli (West), Apisai Masikerei (East), Everi Lewamoci (West), Roger Qoro (West), Apisai Nabou (West), Atunaisa Turagaiviu (East), Erami Rayavato (Wes), Tikiko Noke (West), Eminoni Nasilasila (East), Joseva Vetaukula (West), Netava Rarokoliwa (West), Sikeli Bobo (West), Semisi Qoro (West), Ilisavani Jegese (West), Jone Marawa (West), Aminiasi Yaroi (West), Kitione Rasotale (West), Seruvi Ralulu (West).