Halves spearhead Fiji U20

Fiji Times - Saturday, May 17, 2008 1:25 PM

HALVES pair Vuga Tagicakibau and Alex Rokobaro will form a pivotal combination for the Fiji under-20 side against their Tongan counterparts at the National Stadium this evening.

The two players, like their teammates, are being groomed to be the future faces of the Flying Fijians.

New Zealand-based Tagicakibau will start at halfback while Rokobaro will control the game from the flyhalf's position.

The team will be led by former Marist Brothers High School student Jese Cirikisuva.

Fiji U20 coach Rayne Simpson said though the team to the Junior World Championships has been finalized, there was still more work to be done before they head to Wales.

"So we are looking forward to the three warm-up matches that are coming up," Simpson said.

"We feel this is a good chance for us to map out our best combinations and iron out the loose bits before the World Championships."

The Fiji U20 will travel to Sydney to play Australia on May 25 before they take on North Surburb Colts on May 28.

Fiji U20: 1 Serupepeli Qaranivalu, 2 Saula Qalomai, 3 Jeke Lailai, 4 Temo Vakaloloma, 5 Tevita Tuiloa, 6 Joseva Levula/Waqabaca Kotobalavu, 7 Jese Cirikisuva (capt), 8 Samuela Vunisa, 9 Vuga Tagicakibau (v/capt), 10 Alex Rokobaro, 11 William Unu, 12 John Stewwart, 13 Sikeli Vuruna, 14 Alipate Buto, 15 Kini Murimurivalu. Reserves: Seru Cakobau, Manasa Saulo, Ofa Unaloto, Joseva Levula/Waqabaca Kotobalavu, Peni Rokodiva, Anare Vakawaletabua, 22 William Saukuru.