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HSBC SVNS Series star Terio Tamani has been named in the Flying Fijians squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup in Japan, among the seven uncapped prospects in the 31-player group that will face Canada first up on September 12.
Fiji Rugby announced the squad list earlier this week, with four potential debutants named in the forwards. Penaia Cakobau, Vilikesa Nairau, Inoke Ravuiwasa and Iosa Tuwai are in the mix to possibly make their maiden Flying Fijians appearance next month
In the backs, teenager Maleli Nauvasi and outside back Isaac Ratumaitavukui-Kneepkens could be set for their first Test appearances. Tamani will compete for a spot in the matchday 23, following a standout SVNS Series during the 2026 season.
Tamani earned a spot in the Men’s SVNS Dream Team of the Year in partnership with HSBC, with Fiji teammate Vuiviwa Naduvalo selected as well. Tristan Leyds and Shilton van Wyk earned honours as part of South Africa’s SVNS World Championship-winning side.
The Flying Fijians squad excludes some experienced players as well, including fly-halves Caleb Muntz and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula. Kemu Valetini has been brought into the squad after missing out on the three Nations Championship fixtures in July.
Frank Lomani headlines the group of scrum-halves that also includes recent Drua signing Sam Wye and former Fiji U20 talent Philip Baselala. Olympic silver medallist Joji Nasova and recent Flying Fijians debutant Virimi Vakatawa are other notable inclusions in the national team’s roster.
In the forwards, Mesaka Bode, Peni Ravai, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesaka Vocevoce, Kitione Salawa and Elia Canakaivata have been selected. Fiji are the reigning PNC champions and will once again look to defend that crown.
Fiji face Canada in the semi-finals on September 12, which will be played at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka. The third-place playoff and final will be played at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo on September 19, where Fiji would face either Japan or the USA in either match.
Fiji squad for Pacific Nations Cup 2026
Forwards: Livai Natave, Peni Ravai, Meli Tuni, Tevita Ikanivere, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Penaia Cakobau*, Mesake Doge, Samu Tawake, Vililesa Nairau*, Inoke Ravuiwasa*, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua, Joseva Tamani, Kitione Salawa, Motikiai Murray, Isoa Tuwai*, Elia Canakaivata.
Backs: Frank Lomani, Sam Wye, Philip Baselala, Terio Tamani*, Caleb Muntz, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Kemu Valetini, Joji Nasova, Maleli Nauvasi*, Manasa Mataele, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Virimi Vakatawa, Isaac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens*, Isikeli Rabitu.
*New cap