Super Rugby's 'Battle of the Pacific' returns

Moana Pasifika will be looking to win the 'battle of the Pacific' against Fijian Drua tomorrow at Mt Smart Stadium in the opening round of Super Rugby Pacific.

In their inaugural match last year, Fijian Drua won 34-19 in Sydney.​

Apart from the 'Battle of the Pacific', fans will also get to experience cultural festivities such as performances, food trucks and market stalls.​

Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards Red Cross and their efforts to support victims of Cyclone Gabrielle.

Moana Pasifika has also gifted tickets to those assisting in recovery efforts, including volunteers at Emergency Evacuation Centres, first responders and community groups.

Speaking on Pacific Mornings, Pacific Days Super Rugby Commentator, Mel Kawa, says seeing Moana Pasifika play is an exciting prospect.

"I know they've got a lot of fans based off their debut season," she says.

"Fijian Drua had an epic trial match against the force here in Brisbane. Very high scoring affair so they've got points in them."

Supporters will see new faces, including Moana Pasifika's new pickup, Northland Taniwha Jonah Mau'u, who will anchor the scrum in jersey eight.

While Fijian Drua will be joined by four recruits, two being potential debutants: Nadronga winger Taniela Rakuro (23), who was promoted from the Drua development squad, and Elia Canakavata (20).

The remaining two run-on debutants are Tokyo Olympics 7s Gold Medalist and Rugby World Cup 7s winner, Iosefo Masi, at outside centre, and Emosi Tuqiri, debuting in jersey one at loosehead prop.

Across the field Moana Pasifika's most-capped player, Ezekiel Lindenmuth, will debut in jersey one at loosehead prop, with 'Ikale Tahi internationals Samiuela Moli (2) and Sosefo (Joe) 'Apikotoa (3) finishing the front row.

Tuqiri will be joined by Jone Koroiduadua (3) who will pack down at tighthead and Tevita Ikanivere (2), completeing the front row at hooker.

Ikanivere will stand in as captain for this match, despite fans potentially anticipating Meli Derenalagi in the role, who was recently elected.

While former-wallaby Christian Lealiifano of Moana Pasifika will captain their team, filling in for Sekope Kepu who is recovering from an achilles injury.

Jack Lam and Penitoa Finau will also be missing from the team due to injuries.

Kawa says the match will be exciting, giving props to Drua's Frank Lomani at half back and Teti Tela (10) at flyhalf are well informed middle game drivers.

"I'd really like to see how they go against the season veteran Christian Lealiifano - a favourite player of mine!

"I think Drua might have it but so excited for that match!"

The game kicks off at 4:35 PM.