MARSEILLE, France, Oct 12 (Reuters) - Fiji expect hooker Sam Matavesi to play in Sunday's World Cup quarter-final against England after he travelled back to England, where he lives and plays in the Premiership, after the death of his father, Sireli, earlier this week.
Sireli Matavesi moved to Cornwall after touring there in 1987.
"It is with heavy hearts that The Fiji Rugby Union, The Flying Fijians Team and Head Coach Simon Raiwalui share the news of our hooker Sam Matavesi and former Flying Fijian Josh Matavesi, who have lost their beloved father, the late Sireli Matavesi," the union said in a statement on Wednesday.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the Matavesi family during this incredibly difficult time.
Sam Matavesi travelled to Cornwall to spend time with his family but the Fiji camp say he is expected to be able to play in Marseille on Sunday.
Persons:
Sam Matavesi, Sireli, Sireli Matavesi, Simon Raiwalui, Josh Matavesi, Matavesi, Sam, Josh, Josua, Tito, Tuisova, Waisea Nayacalevu, Raiwalui, Mitch Phillips, Ken Ferris
Organizations:
England, Fiji Rugby Union, The Flying Fijians, Flying, Thomson
Locations:
MARSEILLE, France, Fiji, England, Cornwall, Marseille