Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has reassured supporters that promising player Jone Naqiri remains an integral part of the club’s future, even though he was not selected for the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific squad. Jackson expressed his satisfaction with the finalized 39-man roster, which includes four players promoted from the Drua Development program, highlighting the intense competition for positions in a country abundant with rugby talent.
“We are very, very happy with our team,” Jackson stated, emphasizing the quality of the squad while noting that not all promising players from the development system can be included at once. He assured fans that Naqiri’s exclusion from the main team does not reflect a lack of faith in his abilities or potential contributions to the Drua.
Citing the depth of talent in Fiji, Jackson acknowledged the challenges associated with finalizing selection amidst such rigorous competition. “When you can only select what you can, 39 players, and as we all know, this is a fantastic country of depth and talent. It’s not easy in professional sport,” he remarked.
Despite his current absence from the main squad, Jackson confirmed that Naqiri’s journey with the Drua is far from over. “Jone’s representation with the Drua is not gone. He’s still very much part of our plans,” he added. Naqiri has been recognized for his strong performances in both the Drua development program and local competitions, positioning him as one of Fiji’s brightest young forwards.
This affirmation of commitment to developing local talent aligns with the Drua’s broader strategy under Jackson’s leadership, which prioritizes nurturing homegrown players while maintaining a competitive edge in international rugby. The team’s proactive scouting of younger players, as demonstrated by Jackson’s interest in under-20 competitors and local tournaments, showcases the Drua’s dedication to building a strong foundation for the team’s future success.
With their growing reputation in rugby and a clear vision for player development, the Fijian Drua encourages hopes of thrilling performances as the new season approaches, offering fans a promising outlook as they continue to nurture their upcoming stars.