The China Mail - Barbarians pick Vakatawa for South Africa match

Vakatawa was forced to retire from French side Racing 92 almost four years ago due to a heart problem, although a year later he controversially resumed his career with Bristol Bears.

Earlier this year, he joined the Fijian Drua franchise in the Super Rugby championship.

Last month, he was called up to the Fiji squad ahead of the inaugural Nations Championship.

Born in New Zealand but brought up in his parents' homeland of Fiji, he was a France international in Sevens and then in rugby union between 2015 and 2022.

Having not played for France since 2022, he has now qualified to switch international allegiances.

He is one of a number of star names called up by the Babaas for the match at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday.

Former New Zealand scrum-half TJ Perenara will captain the side while South African-born Scotland and British & Irish Lions international Duhan van der Merwe will line up on the wing.

Australia international Andrew Kellaway will line up on the opposite wing.

"We are all really excited for Saturday afternoon. To play against the world champions in South Africa is an awesome opportunity," said Scott Robertson, the former All Blacks head coach who will lead the Babaas.

"It's a team packed with talent, guys who have come from all over the world and have a great chance to showcase their ability in Port Elizabeth."

Team (15-1):

Warrick Gelant; Andrew Kellaway, Virimi Vakatawa, Alex Nankivell, Duhan van der Merwe; Tomas Albornoz, TJ Perenara (capt); Miracle Fai’ilagi, Guido Petti, Lachlan Boshier; Alex Moon, Franco Molina; D'Arcy Rae, Elliot Dee, Mayko Vivas,

Replacements: Leonel Oviedo, Oli Kebble, Pedro Delgado, Izack Rodda, Liam McConnell, Santiago Arata, Harry Plummer, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre

W.Tam--ThChM