Ponipate Loganimasi will replace the suspended Semi Radradra when Fiji face Ireland in Dublin on Sunday, in one of three changes to the Pacific islanders’ thrilling win over Wales a fortnight ago.
Fiji coach Mick Byrne made wholesale alterations for last week’s hard-fought 33-19 win away to Spain.
But he has now reverted to his strongest available line-up, with the other two changes to the team that beat Wales seeing Mesake Vocevoce preferred to Isoa Nasilasila in the second row and Luke Tagi replacing Sam Tawake at tighthead prop.
Fly-half Caleb Muntz, so impressive against Wales, will again direct Fiji’s attack at Lansdowne Road.
Vuate Karawalevu; Jiuta Wainiqolo, Waisea Nayacalevu (co-capt), Josua Tuisova, Ponipate Loganimasi; Caleb Muntz, Frank Lomani; Elia Canakaivata, Kitione Salawa, Meli Derenalagi; Temo Mayanavanua, Mesake Vocevoce; Luke Tagi, Tevita Ikanivere (co-capt), Eroni Mawi