Swire Shipping Fijian Drua fans are beginning to take notice of Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, a former Wallaby who made a remarkable impression during last week’s pre-season match against the Chiefs. His skilled handling around the ruck and his composure in offensive scenarios have drawn significant attention, adding depth to the already competitive halfback lineup.
Co-captain Frank Lomani emphasized the intensity of the competition for the cherished number nine jersey, which he believes is crucial as the team prepares 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,” Lomani remarked, highlighting the benefits of having multiple capable players vying for positions.
The team’s squad boasts impressive talent, including experienced player Simione Kuruvoli, who previously delivered a strong season, and rising star Philip Baselala, alongside Fines-Leleiwasa. Each member brings unique strengths, with Fines-Leleiwasa’s experience from his stints with the Western Force and the Wallabies adding invaluable insight to the roster.
Lomani pointed out that selection for the match-day squad will depend on individual performance, cultivating a healthy competitive environment within the team. “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 stated, reinforcing the value of a merit-based approach to team composition.
Looking forward, the Fijian Drua will take on the Skipper select side this Friday in Lautoka for their second pre-season match, a fixture set to kick off at 4 PM and available for fans to watch live on FBC Sports. This internal competition not only promotes player development but also contributes to building a stronger, more resilient team as they head into the season ahead. The excitement around the squad’s potential reflects a promising outlook for Fijian Drua supporters.