By Salma El-Sakka
Fiji have named former England international Nathan Hughes in their starting lineup for Saturday's Nations Championship match against France in Lyon, marking the 35-year-old's Test debut for his birth country under new head coach Jake White.
Hughes' eligibility and career
Hughes, a Fiji-born number eight, earned 22 caps for England between 2016 and 2019 under Eddie Jones, with his last appearance coming in a 38-38 draw against Scotland in the 2019 Six Nations. He becomes eligible for Fiji under World Rugby's updated Regulation 8, which permits a change of allegiance after a three-year stand-down period, provided a birthright connection exists and World Rugby grants approval. After leaving English rugby, Hughes played in Japan for the Black Rams and D-Rocks before joining Racing 92 in 2025, where his form earned him a recall to international rugby.
Fiji starting XV and replacements
Hughes will start at number eight alongside flankers Pita-Gus Sowakula and Kitione Salawa, behind locks Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila. The front row features props Eroni Mawi and Luke Tagi flanking captain Tevita Ikanivere at hooker. Flyhalf Isikeli Rabitu partners scrumhalf Simione Kuruvoli, while Vinaya Habosi and Iosefo Masi form the midfield. Salesi Rayasi, Selestino Ravutaumada and Jiuta Wainiqolo complete the back three. Replacements include Zuriel Togiatama, Peni Ravai, Inoke Ravuiwasa, Peceli Yato, Elia Canakaivata, Frank Lomani, Ben Volavola and Sireli Maqala.
Upcoming fixtures
Following the clash in Lyon, Fiji travel to Dublin to face Ireland on 14 November before meeting Italy in Udine a week later, as they seek to climb from the bottom of the Southern Hemisphere Nations Championship standings.
