How will the Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika close off their 2026 campaigns?

The Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika are sitting 10th and 11th on the Super Rugby Pacific standings heading into the final round of the regular season. Photo: Photosport / RNZ

What should we expect from the Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika this weekend, as both the Pasifika-representative sides are playing their last matches of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Last weekend, both teams lost narrowly to their round 15 opponents the Western Force and Queensland Reds.

The Fijian Drua's last dance will mark a key milestone, with hooker Zuriel Togiatama named to play his 50th game for the side.

Togiatama celebrated his 49th match last week by scoring his first-ever try, coming against the Force in Perth.

Togiatama, who has Niuean heritage and shares maternal links to Logana-Nawaitabu in Bua province in Fiji, will become only the sixth player to notch 50 Drua caps.

In addition, head coach Glen Jackson is finishing off with the side he has been with since 2022.

Jackson has named a match-day 23 that has young and experienced hands, including Isikeli Rabitu at inside centre, flyhalf Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula named at fullback, and Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, who has been a steady hand in midfield for the side.

Veteran prop Peni Ravai is back and will start off the bench, with Isoa Nasilasila in to play his 64th game, partnering captain Temo Mayanavanua.

Nadi's Kitione Salawa retains his number 7 jersey, to play his 51st game.

Salawa has turned consistency into points in 2026, producing back-to-back tries after recording just one across his previous 28 Super Rugby Pacific games.

Competition statistics suggest the Fijian Drua pack has been the hardest hitting attacking force among forwards in the competition, leading the competition with 11.5 tackle breaks per game.

It will be an area the side will be focused on as Jackson fully understands the battle upfront will set the pace for any go-forward during the game.

Jackson has opted for a 6-2 bench split, with Sairusi Ravudi, Peni Ravai and Mesake Doge providing front-row cover, while Joseva Tamani, Etonia Waqa and Isoa Tuwai strengthen the forward reserves.

Simione Kuruvoli and Virimi Vakatawa are the two backline replacements.

Reds coach Les Kiss has named a powerful side as well, but has retained the core of the team that pipped Moana Pasifika last weekend.

The match is a must-win for them, as they look to consolidate their spot in the top six.

Seru Uru, captain Fraser McReight and Harry Wilson have been named as the loose trio, with Joe Brial, moved to the bench.

Fijian heritage players Ben Volavola and Filipo Daugunu are covers for the backline.

Reds: 1. Aidan Ross, 2. Matt Faessler, 3. Zane Nonggorr, 4. Josh Canham, 5. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 6. Seru Uru, 7. Fraser McReight (captain), 8. Harry Wilson, 9. Tate McDermott, 10. Carter Gordon, 11. Tim Ryan, 12. Hunter Paisami, 13. Josh Flook, 14. Lachie Anderson, 15. Treyvon Pritchard