Eight players from Swire Shipping Fijian Drua are set to participate in the Drua Development team for a curtain-raiser match against the Australian Fijians Rugby Union this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka. This match will occur prior to the highly anticipated Round One Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific game between the Drua and Moana Pasifika, offering fans an exciting double-header experience.
Head coach Nemani Nadolo-Kuridrani has brought together seasoned players including Vilive Miramira, Motikiai Murray, Philip Baselala, Joji Nasova, Inia Tabuavou, and Kavaia Tagivetaua to bolster the development side’s chances as they perform in front of a home audience. These experienced athletes will join emerging talents such as Breyton Legge, who will have the honor of captaining the squad, along with Harold Rounds, Angelo Smith, Janerio Wakeham, Kalioni Ratunabuabua, Meli Dreu, Pita Manamanaivalu, Garlen Peace, and Bogi Kikau.
Additional squad members include Josh Uluibau, JD Sivivatu Kanth, Sairusi Ravudi, Daris Khan, Jeremaia Teka, Adam Khan, Joweli Walevu, Isikeli Basiyalo, and Maleli Nauvasi.
This match offers a great opportunity for Development players to face international competition, allowing them to hone their skills and develop team chemistry in front of their local supporters before the main event. There is a hopeful anticipation that this experience will not only benefit the players but also engage fans and enhance the overall rugby culture in Fiji.