Upbeat Fiji ring the changes

Fiji have made wholesale changes to their starting line-up for the final Pool D match against Wales at Hamilton's Waikato Stadium on Sunday.

Only five players from the starting 15 against Samoa have kept their spots and Netani Edward Talei will replace Deacon Manu as captain.

"It's always a privilege to be named as captain," said Talei. "There are lots of senior players on the team, so it's a real honour.

"I want to lead those younger players out on Sunday and set a good example to them. It's a great opportunity and I'm really looking forward to it."

Among those making their first start at Rugby World Cup 2011 is Albert Vulivuli, who has been named on the wing rather than his usual position at centre.

Vulivuli, who attended school in Hamilton, came off the bench in the last match against Samoa and made an immediate impact, something he hopes to repeat against Wales ahead of the Fijians' exit from the tournament.

Really hungry

"I will be so glad to be out there," he said. "It will be extra special because it will at my old home ground.

"I'll bring plenty of energy. I'll be really hungry for the ball."

The 22-man squad includes 16 players who play their club rugby overseas, while a 17th, lock Leone Nakarawa, has recently signed a contract with Saracens in England.

Coach Samu Domoni expects his new team to put in a lively performance.

"The biggest word we have been focusing on during the week is energy," he said. "We'll bring plenty of that plus effort and desire, which has pretty much been our focus for every game.

"We want to really enjoy ourselves on Sunday."

Positive mood

The squad has been receiving criticism from home after defeats to South Africa and Samoa in their past two matches but Vulivuli said the players were in positive mood.

"We've certainly been training that way. We've been really enjoying things.

"The boys have definitely cheered up for this game. Hopefully we can do really well."

Nicky Little, who has played 71 Tests for Fiji, keeps the No.10 jersey, while the experienced Sunia Koto retains his place at hooker.

Talei, Nakarawa and Gaby Lovobalavu are the other surviving starters from the Samoa match.

Verenicki Goeva, Fiji's leading World Cup try-scorer, is on the bench.