Vakatawa to debut for Fiji after switch from France

Fiji is set to hand a debut to center Virimi Vakatawa when they face Scotland in the Nations Championship on Saturday. This marks a significant revival of his international career, which previously spanned 32 caps for France. Vakatawa's time with the French national team ended abruptly four years ago due to a revealed heart abnormality. He returned to play a year later for Bristol. Now, at 34 years old, he meets World Rugby's eligibility criteria to switch national allegiances, having passed the 36-month mark since his last appearance for France. His inclusion sees him replace Kalaveti Ravouvou, who was part of the team that suffered a heavy 73-8 defeat against England in Liverpool last Saturday. In other team adjustments, Simione Kuruvoli is out at scrumhalf due to a ban received against England, with Frank Lomani taking his place. These are among four changes in the backline announced on Thursday. The forward pack also sees adjustments, with lock Temo Mayanavanua coming in for Tevita Ratuva, and loose forwards Pita-Gus Sowakula and Elia Canakaivata returning to the starting lineup. Notably, Fiji has ceded home advantage for this match, a situation they also faced against Wales and England in recent weeks. The full team lineup includes: 15-Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, 14-Selestino Ravutaumada, 13-Virimi Vakatawa, 12-Josua Tuisova, 11-Jiuta Wainiqolo, 10-Caleb Muntz, 9-Frank Lomani, 8-Elia Canakaivata, 7-Lekima Tagitagivalu, 6-Pita-Gus Sowakula, 5-Temo Mayanavanua, 4-Isoa Nasilasila, 3-Mesake Doge, 2-Tevita Ikanivere (captain), 1-Eroni Mawi. Replacements are: 16-Sam Matavesi, 17-Livai Natave, 18-Peni Ravai, 19-Mesake Vocevoce, 20-Kitione Salawa, 21-Sam Wye, 22-Isikeli Rabitu, 23-Salesi Rayasi.