Published on: 11/21/2024 – 8:34 p.m.Amended: 11/21/2024 – 8:32 p.m.

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Fiji coach Mick Byrne made significant changes during last week’s hard-fought 33-19 victory over Spain.

But he has now returned to his strongest available line-up, with the other two changes to the team that beat Wales, Mesake Vocevoce being preferred to Isoa Nasilasila in the second row and Luke Tagi replacing Sam Tawake at right prop.

Flyhalf Caleb Muntz, so impressive against Wales, will once again lead the Fiji attack at Lansdowne Road.

Loganimasi gets his chance against Ireland after Radradra was sent off in a 24-19 defeat to Wales in Cardiff – Fiji’s first victory against Wales in the Welsh capital.

Radradra was playing on the wing when the 32-year-old was initially shown a yellow card for a one-on-one tackle in the first half on Welsh full-back Cameron Winnett.

The challenge was later upgraded to a red card, with star fullback Radradra handed a ban that ruled him out of Fiji’s two matches against Spain and Ireland, their final matches of the November window.

Understrength Fiji were beaten 57-17 by Scotland in their opening match in November.

But they will now look to end their European tour with a first victory against Ireland after their previous visit to Dublin ended in a 35-17 defeat two years ago.

Fiji (15-1)

Vuate Karawalevu; Jiuta Wainiqolo, Waisea Nayacalevu (co-captain), Josua Tuisova, Ponipate Loganimasi; Caleb Muntz, Frank Lomani; Elia Canakaivata, Kitione Salawa, Meli Derenalagi; Temo Mayanavanua, Mesake Vocevoce; Luke Tagi, Tevita Ikanivere (co-captain), Eroni Mawi

Substitutions: Sam Matavesi, Haereiti Hetet, Samu Tawake, Setareki Turagacoke, Albert Tuisue, Peni Matawalu, Vilimoni Botitu, Sireli Maqala

Coach: Mick Byrne (AUS)

© 2024 AFP