27 May 2016

Sport: Strong Pacific flavour to Wallabies squad

12:49 pm on 27 May 2016

There's a strong Pacific flavour to the Australian rugby squad named by coach Michael Cheika for next month's three-test series against England.

Fiji born wingers Taqele Naiyaravoro and Eto Nabuli have been included in a 39-man training squad.

Glasgow Warriors flyer Naiyaravoro made his test debut against the United States last year, scoring with his first touch of the ball, while Nabuli is poised to become a dual international, having played for the Fiji Bati rugby league team.

Fiji-born winger Taqele Naiyaravoro sizes up Dan Carter while playing for Glasgow.

Fiji-born winger Taqele Naiyaravoro sizes up Dan Carter while playing for Glasgow. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Fiji-born flyer Eto Nabuli playing for the St George Illawarra Dragons.

Eto Nabuli played in the NRL before switching to rugby union Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Former Fiji Under 20s representative Samu Kerevi is in line for his first test cap after being named alongside fellow Fiji-born centre Tevita Kuridrani in midfield.

Cousins Tevita Kuridrani (Australia) and Nemani Nadolo (Fiji) embrace following their team's Rugby World Cup clash in Cardiff.

Cousins Tevita Kuridrani (Australia) and Nemani Nadolo (Fiji) embrace following their team's Rugby World Cup clash in Cardiff. Photo: AFP

Brumbies prop Allan Alaalatoa has also earned his first call-up.

He's the son of former Manu Samoa international Vili Alaalatoa and brother of Crusaders and ex Samoa Under 20s prop Michael.

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has also recalled former captain James Horwill and included a total of ten new caps, including former rugby league international Karmichael Hunt.