Radradra stays on the wing in Fiji side for quarter-final clash

WING-THREAT: Semi Radradra of Fiji. Pic: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Fiji have returned Semi Radradra to the left wing among three backline switches for Sunday's Rugby World Cup quarter-final against England, along with a trio of changes in the backline as they announced their line-up on Friday.

Radradra started Fiji's first game of the tournament against Wales at centre but was switched to the wing for the 22-15 victory over Australia in Saint-Etienne, a result which proved the catalyst for the islanders' place in the last eight.

Ilaisa Droasese returns at fullback after last week’s defeat by Portugal in their last pool match, where Fiji still collected the point they needed to advance, while Vinaya Habosi switches to the right wing in place of Selestino Ravutaumada.

Among the forwards, Tevita Ikanivere will earn his first World Cup start after playing Fiji's first four pool games off the bench, replacing Sam Matavesi at hooker while Gloucester's Albert Tuisue is in at lock and Lekima Tagitagivalu chosen as openside flanker.

It means there are 10 starters from the Fiji side that beat England in a warm-up international at Twickenham in August.

Matavesi is on the bench after earlier this week travelling back to England, where he lives and plays in the Premiership, after the death of his father, Sireli.

It was the second family bereavement to hit the Fijians during the tournament after the death of Josua Tuisova's seven-year-old son Tito following a long illness. Tuisova missed his son's funeral in order to stay in France.

Fiji: I Droasese; V Habosi, W Nayacalevu (capt.), J Tuisova, S Radradra; V Botitu, F Lomani; E Mawi, T Ikanivere, L Tagi; I Nasilasila, A Tuisue; L Tagitagivalu, L Botia, V Mata.

Replacements: S Matavesi, P Ravai, M Doge, M Derenalagi, V Miramira, S Kuruvoli, I Masi, S Maqala.