The Summer Test Series is a final proving ground for players trying to make the roster for the Rugby World Cup, for a few players it’s the first and only chance to make the squad.

Alivereti Raka - (France, Clermont)

After four years and 35 tries with Clermont, the native Fijian winger is finally eligible to cap for France. Many obstacles stood between Raka and a french uniform, none of which were talent. 

French eligibility stipulations are stricter than other countries requiring players to commit to five years of residency before they can cap. Raka married a french national shortening his residency requirement to four years.

He overcame citizenship tests, internet abuse, hand surgery, and a mosquito bite infection.

Now he has a chance to play his way into Jacques Brunel’s Rugby World Cup outfit.

Raka has a difficult task ahead of him. Above him on the depth chart is Yoann Huget, the third most capped player on the squad (58 caps) and Clermont teammate Damien Penaud (5 caps).

Watch France In The Summer Test Series LIVE on FloRugby

Saturday, August 17

France vs Scotland (Nice, 3:00 PM ET)

Saturday, August 24

Scotland vs France (Edinburgh, 8:10 AM ET)

Friday, August 30

France vs Italy (Paris, 3:10 PM ET)