I'm lost for words - Toshiba's Tamanivalu on his Fiji recall

Toshiba Brave Lupus centre and ex-All Black Seta Tamanivalu has been named in Fiji’s 30-man squad for the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup.

The 33-year-old Lautoka native, who won the last of his five caps for New Zealand in 2017 having qualified on residency grounds, has been recalled by Fiji head coach Mick Byrne after a standout season for champions Toshiba.

Hard-running Tamanivalu made all three of his appearances for his homeland in 2022 and with a host of France-based players unavailable for selection due to contractual commitments, he is now set to return to Test rugby after a three-year absence.  

The former Crusaders star is joined in the squad by Shizuoka Blue Revs’ new signing Semi Radradra, 33, Honda Heat’s latest acquisition, hooker Tevita Ikanivere, 25, and the nephew of his Toshiba teammate Richie Mo’unga in 21-year-old fly-half Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula.

Tamanivalu scored nine tries in 16 appearances last term and finished third for offloads (31) behind teammates Rob Thompson and Mo’unga (tied on 35).

Reflecting on the call-up on Monday, Toshiba’s fan favourite, who joined the club from Top 14 side Bordeaux in 2021, exclusively told RugbyJP.com: “I still can’t believe it, I'm just lost for words really; all glory to God.

The ecstatic powerhouse added: "It’s been a while since the last Test I was involved in but I’m grateful that I’m in this position where I get to play in front of my three boys, which is more special. That was the main goal for me."

Fiji’s talent-laden squad boasts an intriguing mix of seasoned competitors and exciting young talent as they aim to retain the PNC title after a resounding 41-17 win over hosts Japan last year.

The reigning champions will open their campaign at home against Tonga at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on Saturday 30 August before facing Samoa at New Zealand’s Rotorua International Stadium on Saturday 6 September.  

Head coach Mick Byrne said: “When bringing young players into a tournament, you need experienced leaders around them to guide their development. Having world-class players like Bill Mata, Semi Radradra, and Seta Tamanivalu creates the perfect environment for these rising talents. Even someone like Kitione Salawa, who has been in the setup for a few years, is still refining his game at this level.

“The key is ensuring these young players learn what it takes to perform at the elite level every single day.”

Byrne highlighted some areas where his team has progressed but identified their lack of cutting edge as a key work-on for the upcoming tournament.

“We need to revisit our systems from the July Tests. Our set piece improved as the series progressed, and we’ll continue building in that area. Breakdown work and ball retention will be key focuses. Defensively, we’ve made significant strides compared to last year, but we must be more clinical in finishing opportunities when we’re in attacking positions.”

FIJI Water Flying Fijians Squad:

Props: Eroni Mawi, Haereiti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Samu Tawake, Meli Tuni  

Hookers: Tevita Ikanivere, Zuriel Togiatama 

Locks: Isoa Nasilasila, Temo Mayanavanua, Mesake Vocevoce, Etonia Waqa 

Loose Forwards: Elia Canakaivata, Motikai Murray, Isoa Tuwai, Bill Mata, Kitione Salawa 

Scrum-halves: Philip Baselala, Simione Kuruvoli 

Fly-halves: Caleb Muntz, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula 

Centres: Kalaveti Ravouvou, Inia Tabuavou, Semi Radradra, Seta Tamanivalu 

Outside Backs: Sam Wye, Kemu Valentini, Ponipate Loganimasi, Taniela Rakuro, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre 

Stay tuned to RugbyJP for full coverage of the Pacific Nations Cup