Rugby World Cup 2023 Preview: Fiji

August 24, 2023
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Ultimate Rugby

Rugby World Cup 2023 is rapidly approaching, with just over two weeks until the opening game. Rugby.com.au examines every team's chances in France, looking at Fiji.

Fiji will be confident of making their third Rugby World Cup quarter-finals as they start to build a world-class squad.

They sit in an almost identical group to 2019, in which they were stunned by Uruguay in one of the upsets of the tournament.

However, continuity is key as the formation of the Fijian Drua has the national team firing with a host of new talent.

This combined with a host of players plying their trade in Europe has the Flying Fijians confident of causing an upset or two.

How they qualified

Finished third in their 2019 RWC Pool

Recent form

Fiji have taken their game to the next level under former Wallabies assistant Simon Raiwalui.

Their Spring Tour form left a little to be desired after defeats to Scotland and Ireland.

However, they rebounded in 2023 after taking out the Pacific Nations Cup.

They showed their toughness to defeat rivals Tonga and Samoa before blowing out Japan to seal the title.

Squad

Fiji head coach Simon Raiwalui named his squad Tuesday for next month's Rugby World Cup

Waisea Nayacalevu will captain the Flying Fijians at the Rugby World Cup while Jone Koroiduadua is the only uncapped player named in the team.

Nayacalevu, Levani Botia, and Peni Ravai will be going for their third World Cup. Six players will be going for their second World Cup while 24 players will feature for the first time.

Backs: Frank Lomani, Simi Kuruvoli, Peni Matawalu, Caleb Muntz, Teti Tela, Josua Tuisova, Semi Radradra, Waisea Nayacalevu, Iosefo Masi, Selesitino Ravutaumada, Vinaya Habosi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Sireli Maqala, Ilaisa Droasese

Forwards: Eroni Mawi, Peni Ravai, Jone Koroiduadua, Tevita Ikanivere, Sam Matavesi, Zuriel Togiatama, Mesake Doge, Luke Tagi, Samu Tawake, Isoa Nasilasila, Temo Mayanavanua, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Albert Tuisue, Lekima Tagitagivalu, Levani Botia, Vilive Mimramira, Meri Derenalagi, Viliame Mata

X-Factor

Semi Radradra is still one of the more exciting players in attack in World Rugby.

Radradra finished the English season with Bristol on fire, scoring four tries in four games. This form continued into the Pacific Nations Cup as he played a major role in their title success.

The former NRL star has taken on greater leadership responsibilities under Raiwalui, captaining them in their win over Samoa.

With an inexperienced but exciting backline surrounding him, Radradra will be key towards bringing it all together and getting the best out of the likes of Vinaya Habosi and Kalaveti Ravouvou

Breakthrough Player to Watch

Tevita Ikanivere is a name familiar to Super Rugby fans but the hooker can announce himself on the world stage with a strong tournament.

Ikanivere captained the Fijians at the 2018 U20 World Championships, returning them to the top division before earning selection in the 2019 Rugby World Cup squad.

He had limited opportunities in the national set-up before two starring seasons with the Drua ensures he enters this World Cup as a regular member of their 23

The 23-year-old is a try-scoring threat, particularly from the rolling maul, whilst has underrated athleticism that will have him competing with Sam Matavesi for a starting spot