There are three changes to the Flying Fijians run-on team as they look to end their November rugby tour on a winning note against Georgia.
Leone Nakarawa is back for Fiji. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Loosehead prop Eroni Mawi replaces Peni Ravai up front, while Leone Nakarawa is back in the starting line-up, in place of Temo Mayanavanua, after missing the 38-23 defeat by Wales last weekend.
In the only change to the backline, Aminiasi Tuimaba comes onto the left-wing in place of the suspended Eroni Sau.
Three new players have been added to the bench in Madrid with Australia-based halfback Moses Sorovi and France-based duo Luke Tagi and Eneriko Buliruarua getting their first opportunity on tour.
Northern Tour head coach Gareth Baber said the squad was determined to end their November tour on a high note.
"We will be playing our third and final game so it's about energy and experience as we prepare to go against a good and physical Georgian pack," he said.
"Some of the decisions prior to selecting the final team has been based around what's going to contribute to being able to put a winning and excellent performance by the players starting or those coming off the bench."
Baber said they have kept the squad balanced knowing that all the players need some gametime before the tour ends.
"We are trying to create and keep the same momentum which we started with against Spain in our first match and also have the experience and physicality to be able to prevent Georgia from getting into the game.
Fiji putting in work in the gym ahead of their test against Georgia. Photo: Fiji Rugby
Flying Fijians head coach Vern Cotter said the tourists are more than capable of matching Georgia in the physicality stakes.
"We need to keep in mind that when their physical contact and we are capable of beating them one on one and keep scoring tries," he said.
"We just need to keep bringing these aspects of the game but bring discipline and become more accurate. The strategy has been decided and the players should follow it."
Fiji squad:
1. Eroni Mawi, 2. Sam Matavesi, 3. Mesake Doge, 4. Api Ratuniyarawa, 5. Leone Nakarawa, 6. Albert Tuisue, 7. Mesulame Kunavula, 8. Viliame Mata, 9. Frank Lomani, 10. Ben Volavola, 11. Aminiasi Tuimaba, 12. Vilimoni Boititu, 13. Waisea Nayacalevu (c), 14. Josua Tuisova, 15. Setareki Tuicuvu. Reserves: 16. Zuriel Togiatama, 17. Peni Ravai, 18. Luke Tagi, 19. Tevita Ratuva, 20. Masivesi Dakuwaqa, 21. Moses Sorovi, 22. Nikola Matawalu, 23. Eneriko Buliruarua.
