Baselala Set for First Super Rugby Start as Drua Face Western Force
Former Fiji U20 halfback Philip Baselala is set to make his first-ever Super Rugby Pacific start this weekend when the Fijian Drua host the Western Force at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
With the Drua sitting 12th and no longer in the playoff picture, the team is focused on finishing their home campaign on a high note and giving their loyal fans something to celebrate in their final home fixture of the 2025 season.
Head coach Glen Jackson has named a strong lineup for the Round 14 clash, with Baselala earning his place in the starting XV after making six appearances off the bench across the last two seasons. The 20-year-old featured prominently for Fiji at the 2024 World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa, starting four of five games at halfback and playing fly-half in the remaining match against Argentina.
Baselala will partner Kemu Valetini in the halves this weekend. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula will start at fullback, while Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Iosefo Masi form the midfield. Taniela Rakuro and Ponipate Loganimasi complete the back three as wingers.
Up front, Jackson has again named a powerful front row: Haereiti Hetet, Tevita Ikanivere (who returns to the starting lineup and will captain the side), and Samuela Tawake. The second row features Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila, while the back row includes Etonia Waqa (back from injury), Isoa Tuwai at openside, and Elia Canakaivata at No. 8.
Experienced players such as Peni Ravai, Mesake Doge, and Selestino Ravutaumada have been named on the bench, ready to make an impact when called upon.
The Drua are aiming to maintain their impressive nine-game winning streak at Churchill Park and stretch it to 10 on Saturday. However, they continue to deal with injury setbacks, with Frank Lomani and Caleb Muntz still sidelined alongside Zuriel Togiatama, Motikiai Murray, Ilaisa Droasese, Epeli Momo, Meil Derenalagi, and Vilive Miramira.
Kick-off is scheduled for 3:35 pm FJT on Saturday.
Fijian Drua Starting XV vs Western Force
1. Haereiti Hetet
2. Tevita Ikanivere (c)
3. Samuela Tawake
4. Mesake Vocevoce
5. Isoa Nasilasila
6. Etonia Waqa
7. Isoa Tuwai
8. Elia Canakaivata
9. Philip Baselala
10. Kemu Valetini
11. Taniela Rakuro
12. Tuidraki Samusamuvodre
13. Iosefo Masi
14. Ponipate Loganimasi
15. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula
Replacements:
16. Mesulame Dolokoto
17. Peni Ravai
18. Mesake Doge
19. Leone Rotuisolia
20. Kitione Salawa
21. Leone Nawai
22. Inia Tabuavou
23. Selestino Ravutaumada
