Nathan Hughes named at no 8 for Fiji ahead of France clash
Former England international Nathan Hughes will make his first Test appearance since 2019 after being named at No 8 for Fiji ahead of Saturday’s Nations Championship clash against France in Lyon.
Fiji coach Jake White selected the loose forward in a 35-man group alongside three other uncapped players for the November block of fixtures. Hughes previously earned 22 caps for England between 2016 and 2019, with his final appearance coming in a 38-38 draw with Scotland during the 2019 Six Nations. Planet rugby noted that Hughes has spent the past couple of seasons playing in the French Top 14 with Racing 92, following earlier stints with Auckland and English club Wasps, which he joined in 2013.
Building on Momentum in Lyon
The Pacific Islanders enter the fixture against France following a 34-28 victory over Japan in Tokyo last month. Alongside Hughes, White has drafted Peniami Narisia, Marika Parker, and Setareki Bituniyata into the squad as potential debutants for the upcoming matches against France, Ireland, and Italy.
The matchday squad features a familiar mix of overseas-based talent and returning internationals. Eroni Mawi, Peni Ravai, Zuriel Togiatama, Setareki Turagacoke, and Elia Canakaivata return to the forward pack. In the backs, Caleb Muntz, Vilimoni Botitu, Josua Tuisova, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Selestino Ravutaumada, and Salesi Rayasi join a group that also retains Ben Volavola following his recent return to international rugby.
Fiji Matchday 23
Forwards: 1 Eroni Mawi, 2 Tevita Ikanivere, 3 Luke Tagi, 4 Mesake Vocevoce, 5 Isoa Nasilasila, 6 Pita-Gus Sowakula, 7 Kitione Salawa, 8 Nathan Hughes.
Backs: 9 Simione Kuruvoli, 10 Isikeli Rabitu, 11 Jiuta Wainiqolo, 12 Vinaya Habosi, 13 Iosefo Masi, 14 Selestino Ravutaumada, 15 Salesi Rayasi.
Replacements: 16 Zuriel Togiatama, 17 Peni Ravai, 18 Inoke Ravuiwasa, 19 Peceli Yato, 20 Elia Canakaivata, 21 Frank Lomani, 22 Ben Volavola, 23 Sireli Maqala.
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