Eroni Clarke, a former star of New Zealand’s All Blacks, has lauded the Fijian Drua for their remarkable development in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition as they approach their fifth season. During the competition’s launch held in Auckland, Clarke reflected on the Drua’s initial hurdles, including their operation from Lennox Hill, Australia, amid the COVID-19 pandemic and their participation in the National Rugby Championship.
Clarke expressed a deep sense of pride in the accomplishments of the Drua, along with their Pacific counterparts, Moana Pasifika. He noted their impressive transition into Super Rugby, remarking, “I’m so proud of the way the Drua and Moana Pasifika have done in such a short time. I know the Drua has been successful in Australia, and to see them continue that through Super Rugby was really important.”
The former All Black, who also achieved success with the Blues and Highlanders, highlighted the beneficial impact that the progress of the Drua and Moana Pasifika has had on the talent pool for national teams, including the Flying Fijians, Samoa, and Tonga. He stated, “It leads to us having stronger teams for the Flying Fijians, Ikale Tahi (Tonga), and Manu Samoa,” emphasizing the importance of strengthening these nations on the global rugby stage.
With rugby flourishing in Fiji, Clarke expressed optimism for the future of both the Drua and Moana Pasifika, recognizing the positive implications their successes hold for the sport. He eagerly anticipates their upcoming match at Churchill Park in Lautoka, set for Saturday at 3:30 PM, which will provide both teams the chance to display their growth in front of enthusiastic fans. Clarke’s influence in rugby continues through his son Caleb, who plays as a winger for the All Blacks and the Blues, showcasing a proud family legacy in the sport.