Fiji have taken a bold step ahead of this summer’s Nations Championship, naming a 50-man extended squad that blends established internationals with intriguing eligibility switches.
Acting head coach Senirusi Seruvakula has opted for depth and flexibility for now; he will confirm the final 32-player travelling squad closer to the tournament.
But the headline inclusion comes from two familiar names on the international stage—both of whom could now wear a different jersey.
Vakatawa and Hughes offer experience and intrigue
Former France centre Virimi Vakatawa and ex-England back-row Nathan Hughes headline the squad as potential additions under World Rugby’s eligibility laws.
Both Vakatawa and Hughes qualify for Fiji and can now switch allegiance, as neither has played internationally for over three years.
For Vakatawa, the call-up carries particular weight. Forced to step away from French rugby in 2022 due to a cardiac issue, his return to the professional game—and now potential Test rugby—marks a remarkable turnaround.
Hughes, meanwhile, brings power and experience from a career that has spanned England, France and beyond.
If selected in the final squad, both would add proven quality to a side already known for its attacking flair.
Strength in depth across the squad
Beyond the headline names, the extended group reflects Fiji’s growing depth across multiple positions.
The backline remains stacked with attacking threats. Players such as Semi Radradra, Josua Tuisova and Jiuta Wainiqolo offer a mix of power, pace and unpredictability, while emerging talents continue to push through.
In the forwards, experience and physicality remain key pillars. The likes of Levani Botia and Peceli Yato provide versatility and edge, while the front row options underline a continued focus on set-piece improvement.
A structured selection process
Seruvakula emphasised that the team uses a detailed, data-driven selection process that puts player welfare and workload at the heart of every decision.
“We’ve been having regular meetings… looking at all the players, their time in their clubs, how many minutes they’ve been playing,” he explained.
The extended squad allows Fiji to assess availability and fitness before narrowing the group.
Coaches will closely monitor players who confirm their commitment to the July window over the coming weeks.
“While this is an extended squad, all players that confirm their availability… will be monitored before we announce the final 32-man travel squad,” Seruvakula added.
A defining summer ahead
Fiji’s Nations Championship campaign begins with a high-profile clash against Wales in Cardiff, before further fixtures against England and Scotland.
Those matches will test not only the squad’s depth but its ability to compete consistently against Tier One opposition.
With a wider talent pool than ever and the potential addition of experienced dual-qualified players, Fiji head into the tournament with genuine ambition.
The challenge now lies in refining that group into a cohesive, high-performing unit capable of translating promise into results on the international stage.
Flying Fijians extended squad:
Props: Eroni Mawi, Atunaisa Sokobale, Peni Ravai, Livai Natave, Haereiti Hetet, Luke Tagi, Tim Hoyt, Vilikesa Nairau, Mesake Doge
Hookers: Tevita Ikanivere, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Zuriel Togiatama, Sam Matavesi
Locks: Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Albert Tuisue, Temo Mayanavanua, Tevita Ratuva, Joseva Tamani
Flankers: Lekima Tagitagivalu, Etonia Waqa, Isoa Tuwai, Elia Canakaivata, Levani Botia, Kitione Salawa
No.8: Pita-Gus Sowakula, Peceli Yato and Nathan Hughes
Half-back: Frank Lomani, Simione Kuruvoli, Sam Wye, Philip Baselala
Fly-half: Caleb Muntz, Isaia Armstrong-Ravula, Kemu Valetini
Outside Backs: Jiuta Wainiqolo, Selestino Ravutaumada, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Vinaya Habosi
Inside Backs: Josua Tuisova, Filimoni Botitu, Isikeli Rabitu, Virimi Vakatawa, Iosefo Masi, Semi Radradra, Seta Tamanivalu, Sireli Maqala
Fullback: Salesi Rayasi, Vuate Karawalevu
