The Pacific Islanders Test team played from 2004 to 2008. It represented Fiji, Samoa and Tonga; Niue and the Cook Islands also supplied players to the squad for the Pacific Islanders’ tour in 2004. The union was disbanded in 2009 due to financial reasons, but what if the team was reformed today? How competitive would they be?
Back three: Niki Goneva, Telusa Veainu, Josua Tuisova
The backline is the real strength of this team. On each wing we have two Fijian wrecking balls in Tuisova and Goneva. Both huge men, but deceptively fast, and with footwork and footballing skills to match. At full-back is Leicester livewire Telusa Veainu. The Tongan has become a cult hero at Leicester.
Centres Tim Nanai-Williams, Semi Radradra
At 13 we have Semi Radradra. A recent league convert, Radradra has been dominating the Top 14, last season his form for on the wing and in the centre for Toulon earning him a Fiji call-up, and a move to Bordeaux. Playing at second five is Samoan maestro Tim Nanai-Williams. Williams could probably slot into any position in this team and be more than capable.
Halfbacks: Nikola Matawalu, Ben Volavola
An exciting Fijian halfback pairing, Glasgow cult hero Matawalu pairs up with Bordeaux fly-half Volavola. One of the most exciting 9s in the world, Matawalu can spark an attack from anywhere, and has an understanding with Volavola from their international days with Fiji
Back Row: Levani Botia, Bill Mata, Peceli Yato
Big Bill Mata, Edinburgh cult hero, is the obvious choice for number 8. Clermont’s all action flanker Peceli Yato takes the number 6 jersey, and La Rochelle’s centre turned flank Botia will bash from the number 7 spot.
Second Row: Tevita Cavubati, Leone Nakarawa
An all Fijian engine room, The all-action Nakarawa is partnered by Worcester lock Cavubati. Nakarawa will provide a great ball carrying and offloading game, with Cavubati bringing the more typical lock performance
Front Row: Campese Ma’afu, Elvis Taione, Siua Halanukonuka
An ever present in the Fiji front row, Ma’afu will pack down alongside veteran Exeter hooker Taione. Rounding out the front row is Glasgow’s big Tongan tighthead Siua Halanukonuka.
- Campese Ma’afu (Fiji)
- Elvis Taione (Tonga)
- Siua Halanukonuka (Tonga)
- Tevita Cavubati (Fiji)
- Leone Nakarawa (Fiji)
- Levani Botia (Fiji)
- Jack Lam (Samoa)
- Akapusi Qera (Fiji)
- Nikola Matawalu (Fiji)
- Ben Volavola (Fiji)
- Nemani Nadolo (Fiji)
12.Tim Nanai-Williams (Samoa)
13. Semi Radradra
14. Josua Tuisova ( FIji)
15.Telusa Veainu (Tonga)
Unlikely to ever happen but it is a strong team. One of the most exciting backlines in the world, they could compete with anyone on their day. . They may be lacking a bit in the front row, but they would still be very strong.
