Rugby: Northland prop Ropate Rinakama earns Fiji call-up

Northland prop Ropate Rinakama will take his place in the Fiji team for their Northern tour. Photo / John Stone

Northland prop Ropate Rinakama has been rewarded for a breakthrough Mitre 10 Cup campaign with a place in Fiji's squad for their Northern tour.

The front rower has been impressive in his seven starts at tighthead prop, adding impetus to a strong pack.

Meanwhile former Crusaders flier Nemani Nadolo has been left out despite a rollicking start to the new French Top 14 season where he has scored seven tries in five matches.

Coach John McKee said Nadolo was up against stiff competition.

"When you look at our depth of wingers and Nemani had three months off with some concussion issues, so he missed our series over June and July and had three months out of the game non-contact," he said.

McKee said test matches against Italy, Ireland and Canada present a welcome test as they look to build on strong results across June and July.

"We have a challenging itinerary as Italy will be a tough opposition at home and Ireland beat both World No. 1 and No. 2 ranked teams (New Zealand and England) across 2016-17," he said.

"To be successful we will need our players to arrive at assembly ready to bring their 'A' game and to continue to work hard to build on the gains made across the June and July test match series."

Fiji squad: Campese Maáfu, Peni Ravai, Joeli Veitayaki, Tuapati Talemaitoga, Ratunaisa Navuma, Sunia Koto, Ropate Rinakama, Mosese Ducivaki, Manasa Saulo, Leone Nakarawa, Tevita Cavubati, Apisalome Ratuniyarawa, Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Peceli Yato, Mosese Voka, Nemani Nagusa, Akapusi Qera, Semi Kunatani, Henry Seniloli, Frank Lomani, Nikola Matawalu, Ben Volavola, Alivereti Veitokani, Jale Vatubua, Levani Botia, Asaeli Tikoirotuma, Vereniki Goneva, Patrick Osborne, Josua Tuisova, Timoci Nagusa, Kini Murimurivalu.