Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans has announced the promotion of four players from the club’s development program to the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific squad, signaling a strong commitment to nurturing local talent. This move highlights the franchise’s successful long-term investment in homegrown players, with approximately 25% of the squad derived from the club’s development system, which has only been operational for three years.
Evans remarked, “This is a significant milestone for us as a start-up club,” noting that out of the 39 players in the main squad this year, 10 are products of the development program. He expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “That’s a pretty decent output given our relatively short time in operation.”
The success of this initiative serves to motivate young Fijian athletes connected to the club’s foundation and academy pathways. Players like Philip Baselala, who dedicated three years to development before earning his promotion, and Mesake Vocevoce, who rapidly advanced through the ranks, serve as inspiring examples for aspiring rugby talents.
The development system remains a cornerstone of the Drua’s strategy to create sustainable player pathways from grassroots to professional rugby. By ensuring that Fiji’s local talent remains integral to the team’s future, the club is not only strengthening its squad but also making a positive investment in the future of Fijian rugby. This commitment to nurturing young athletes provides them with valuable opportunities to excel at the highest levels of the sport, reinforcing the hopeful outlook for the future of rugby in Fiji.