Pita Gus Sowakula named in Fiji's 32-man squad for November Tour

Former All Black Pita Gus Sowakula has been named in Fiji’s 32-player squad for a three-match Northern Tour in November, joining newcomers Tim Hoyt and Atunaisa Sokobale as potential first-time caps. Head coach Mick Byrne announced the squad in Suva on Thursday, with the Flying Fijians set to play England at Twickenham on Nov. 9, France on Nov. 16 and Spain on Nov. 22.

Sowakula, 30, played two Tests for New Zealand in 2022 and completed a three-year residential standdown on July 9, making him eligible to represent Fiji. He has also represented Fiji in international basketball. Hoyt is based in England with Worcester and Sokobale plays in France for Castres, and both could make their Test debuts during the tour.

Byrne’s selection blends established internationals and emerging players across the pack and backs. The forwards include established frontrow figures Haereti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Eroni Mawi and Samuela Tawake, alongside Hoyt and Sokobale. The hooker contingent features Tevita Ikanivere, while the lock options include Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua and Setareki Turagcoke. The loose forward group lists Lekima Tagitagivalu, Elia Canakaivata, Motikai...