FORMER 7s speedster Benito Masilevu has been named to start for the Flying Fijians when they face-off against the Maori All Blacks on Saturday at the ANZ Stadium in Suva.
The France-based player impressed Flying Fijians coach John McKee during training this week and has forced his way into the starting fifteen.
McKee said Masilevu had shown form during training thus his selection to start.
“Benito went from a 7s program to top 14 in France. He has had a very exciting season. He has scored a lot of tries and is doing very well. He is in form coming out of the Top 14 competition and in his application to training since he has been with the group he has trained very well.
“We have a lot of competition on the wing. We are looking for a big game for him to see if he can make the selection for the PNC,” he said.
Former Waratahs Ben Volavola, however will make his Fiji debut from the bench with the kicking responsibilities still to be decided between Josh Matavesi and Nemani Nadolo. In releasing the 23 players for the match, McKee said he was happy with the progress of the team.
“The team is really coming together and making a lot of progress and really looking forward to this challenging game to open our campaign,” he said.
Akapusi Qera will once again captain the side in their bid for a feat against the Maori’s. He said they would treat the match against the Maori as important in their buildup towards the Rugby World Cup.
“To play in front of our crowd is an honour for us and a privilege for the boys especially since they haven’t been playing in Fiji for quite some time, and to show to Fiji what they can add on to this team,” he said.
Flying Fijians: 1.Campese Ma’afu 2. Talemaitoga Tuapati 3. Manasa Saulo 4. Api Ratuniyarawa 5. Leone Nakarawa 6. Dominiko Waqaniburotu 7. Malakai Ravulo 8. Akapusi Qera 9. Nemia Kenatale 10. Josh Matavesi 11.Nemani Nadolo 12. Gabby Lovobalavu 13. Vereniki Goneva 14. Benito Masilevu 15. Kini Murimurivalu. Reserves: 16. Viliame Veikoso 17. Peni Ravai 18. Isei Colati 19. Nemia Soqeta 20. Sakiusa Matadigo 21. Niko Matawalu 22. Ben Volavola 23. Napolioni Nalaga.
