Gloucester flank gets Fiji call-up

Gloucester have confirmed that flank Akapusi Qera has linked up with the Fijian national squad ahead of Saturday’s international against England.

Qera has been in sparkling form for the English club in recent weeks and was named man of the match in the recent win over the Leicester Tigers.

The 28-year-old, who has won 26 caps for his country and featured in the 2007 and 2011 Rugby World Cups, had initially committed himself to Gloucester throughout the year-end period.

However, the Fijian squad has been affected by injuries as they prepare for their forthcoming tour matches, which includes a game against Gloucester at Kingsholm next Tuesday evening.

As a result, they have formally requested that Qera be released to join up with the rest of the Fiji squad.

“We received a request on Monday morning from the Fijian management requesting Akapusi's services as they have been hit by withdrawals in their build up,” said Gloucester Director of Rugby, Nigel Davies.

“Under the current IRB regulations in these circumstances, we can’t actually prevent a player’s release and we’ll obviously miss him because he’s been in great form for us.

“However, we are of the understanding that this is just for the one match. So, we look forward to him returning to the club very shortly and wish him well in the meantime.”

Fiji: Setefano Somoca, Deacon Manu, Ratu Penijamini Makutu, Manasa Saulo, Seremaia Naureure, Viliame Veikoso, Tuapati Talemaitoga, Leone Nakarawa, Apisai Naikatini, Sokonaia Kalou, Apisalome Ratuniyarawa, Iliesa Ratuva, Malakai Volau, Malakai Ravulo, Jone Qovu, Jovili Domolailai, Nemani Nagusa, Nikola Matawalu, Aisea Natoga, Metuisela Talebula, Jonetani Ralulu, Josh Matavesi, Kelemedi Bola, Vereniki Goneva, Sireli Naqelevuki, Ravai Fatiaki, Samu Wara, Watisoni Votu, Waisea Nayacalevu, Simeli Koniferedi.