The Lautoka custodian was named as captain today while it was also announced that defender Peni Lesubulamailepanoni has completed his comeback by forcing his way into the squad and being handed the vice-captaincy.
The news was much worse for influential midfielder Malakai Tiwa, who has lost his race against time to return from injury and been left out.
Six overseas-based players are included by coach Juan Carlos Buzzetti in his final 20-man squad including four – Pita Bolaitoga, Ilaitia Tuilau, Taniela Waqa and Maciu Dunadamu – from Papua New Guinea club Hekari United.
Striker Roy Krishna, who stars in New Zealand for national champions Waitakere United, and defender Samuela Kautoga, an important figure for Vanuatu’s Amicale, are the others.
Four U-23 players – Misaele Draunibaka, Ilisoni Tuinawaivuvu, Remeuru Tekiata and Archie Watkins – have also seen their places confirmed after coming close to qualifying Fiji for the London Olympic Games.
Tamanisau is no stranger to captaining his country having led Fiji to a top-four finish at the 2011 Pacific Games.
Fiji have been drawn in Group B for the Nations Cup and will do battle with Solomon Islands, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea while Group A consists of New Caledonia, Samoa, Tahiti and Vanuatu.
Buzzetti and his men open their campaign against defending champions New Zealand at Lawson Tama Stadium on Saturday.
For more on Fiji football go to www.fijifootball.com.fj

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