Fiji on edge of qualification
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Having claimed back-to-back wins over tier one nations in June, Fiji will hope to continue their impressive form against Tonga on Saturday to confirm their place at RWC 2019.
Fiji coach John McKee has made five changes to his starting line-up for Saturday’s match against hosts Tonga as the reigning Pacific Nations champions go in search of the result that will secure them their place at Rugby World Cup 2019.
A win or a draw at the Teufaiva Stadium in Nuku'alofa will be enough for Fiji to become the second team after USA to emerge from the qualification process for the tournament in Japan.
Asaeli Tikoirotuma who played a starring role in helping London Irish win promotion back to the English Premiership comes in at outside centre for his first appearance in national colours this year. He replaces Albert Vulivuli, while the only other change to the backline sees Timoci Nagusa step in at full-back at the expense of Kini Murimurivalu.
In the forwards, captain Akapusi Qera shifts from number eight to openside flanker with Nemani Negusa taking his place at the back of the scrum. There are two new starting props in Campese Ma’afu and Manasa Saulo.