Excitement is mounting for the upcoming McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s, especially with the announcement of a formidable Swire Shipping Fijian Drua squad set to participate in the event. This team showcases an impressive mix of seasoned internationals and emerging talent, promising an exhilarating tournament for fans and athletes alike.
The current lineup boasts five capped Flying Fijians, a Rugby World Cup 7s champion, an Olympic silver medallist, and a provincial title winner, highlighting the depth and quality within the squad. The Coral Coast 7s serves as a crucial stage in the Drua’s Sun Bell Pre-Season program, as they gear up for the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.
This year’s squad is a blend of players from the Drua’s main roster and their developmental pathway, seamlessly combining experience with youthful exuberance. The coaching responsibilities will be shared among Drua Development Coach Nemani Nadolo-Kuridrani, sevens legend Waisale Serevi, and seasoned player Ratu Meli Derenalagi, who also holds a gold medal from the Tokyo Olympics.
On the field, leadership will be headed by dynamic forward Elia Canakaivata and agile back Joji Nasova. The team will feature other notable players including Isikeli Rabitu, Philip Baselala, Aisea Nawai, Kitione Salawa, Ilaisa Droasese, and Maika Tuitubou, further bolstered by promising development players such as Joweli Walevu, Kalioni Ratunabuabua, Pita Manamananaivalu, Meli Dreu, and Bogi Kikau. Notably, Simeli Karacia, a standout performer from Malolo Rugby’s victorious 2025 Skipper Cup team, adds further strength to the squad.
Nadolo-Kuridrani expressed confidence in the balance of the squad, emphasizing the significant impact of the coaching experience as the team aims for another impressive performance. Last year, the Drua 7s made a strong impression by reaching the semi-finals in their tournament debut, and they will hope to build on that success.
Competing in Pool E, the Drua will face Japan SDS, British Army 7s, and Yaro Chiefs, kicking off their campaign against British Army 7s at 11:40 AM (FJT) on Thursday at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. This event is not only a platform for showcasing top-level sevens rugby but also a chance for the Drua to solidify their status as a competitive force in the upcoming season.