Swire Shipping Fijian Drua fans are beginning to recognize the skill set of Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, a former Wallaby who showcased his talent during last week’s pre-season match against the Chiefs. His adept handling around the ruck and calmness in offensive play drew significant attention, adding valuable depth to an already competitive halfback roster.
As co-captain Frank Lomani noted, the battle for the coveted number nine jersey is fierce, which he believes is essential as the team gears up for the upcoming Shop N Save Supermarket Super Rugby Pacific season. “If there’s no competition, for us as a team, we won’t be able to play. But the competition is tight,” stated Lomani.
The depth of talent within the squad is impressive, featuring seasoned player Simione Kuruvoli, who previously had a strong season, and upcoming star Philip Baselala, alongside Fines-Leleiwasa, who brings invaluable experience from his time with the Western Force and the Wallabies.
Lomani emphasized that selection for the match-day squad will hinge on performance, which fosters a healthy competitive environment. “There’s a performance environment. Whoever performs on the weekend puts their hand up for selection, which is good for us individually and as a team as well,” he said.
Looking ahead, the Fijian Drua will face off against the Skipper select side this Friday in Lautoka for their second pre-season game, which promises to be an exciting matchup. The game is set to kick off at 4 PM and fans can catch the action live on FBC Sports. This ongoing competition within the team not only enhances player development but also builds a stronger squad in anticipation of the season ahead.