The Fijian Drua have announced a 33-man squad to compete in their sophomore season in the Australian National Rugby Championship.
One third of the squad are Flying Fijians internationals, including lock Albert Tuisue, who has joined from the now defunct Greater Sydney Rams.
The Drua find space against the now defunct Greater Sydney Rams. Photo: Australian Rugby
The Drua finished third in their inaugural campaign before being outclassed by eventual winners Queensland Country in the semi finals.
Coach Senirusi Seruvakula said the competition would be more competitive than last year.
"We have less than three weeks to prepare and are racing against time. My main concern right now is to prepare the team for the tough competition that we have ahead of us," he said.
"There are only seven (other) teams in this year's competition and there is no bye, which means that we will be playing every week, so there is a need for the team to maintain consistency in their training and recovery."
The Fijian Drua huddle together. Photo: Australian Rugby
The Fijian side host the Melbourne Rising in their first round match in Nausori at the start of next month.
Fijian Drua squad:
Forwards: Eroni Mawi, Joeli Veitayaki, Mateo Qolisese, Ratunaisa Navuma, Mesulame Dolokoto, Vugakoto Veremalua, Mosese Ducivaki, Luke Tagi, Alivereti Rabukawaqa, Tevita Naqali, Peni Naulago, Albert Tuisue, Mosese Voka, Johnny Dyer Jone Navori, Filimoni Seru, Eremasi Radrodro, Peni Raidre.
Backs: Serupepeli Vularika, Frank Lomani, Peni Matawalu, Alivereti Veitokani, Jone Manu, Cyril Reece, Jona Sawailau, Poasa Waqanibau, Apisalome Vota, Asesela Atunaisa, Avete Daveta, Levani Kurumudu, Aporosa Tabulawaki, Apisalome Waqatabu, Enele Malele.
Shadow Players: Atunaisa Maiono, Seru Cakobau, Penijamini Makutu, Samuela Saqiwa, Sailosi Dawai, Elia Canakaivata, Aisea Natoga, Veramu Dikidikilati, Peni Vukayawa, Apenisa Deve, Joseva Turuva, Asesela Ratudamu.
