Manuqalo Komaitai, an outstanding Fijiana 15s rugby player, has officially joined the Harlequins ahead of the 2025-26 Premiership Women’s Rugby season. The announcement follows her impressive performances at the recent Women’s World Cup, where she represented Fiji three times, including scoring a crucial try against Scotland.
Primarily playing as a number eight, Komaitai brings a unique blend of talent and discipline to the Harlequins, also serving as a soldier in the British Army with the Irish Guards. This dual commitment showcases her dedication not only to rugby but also to her military responsibilities, where she has carved a niche as the first Fijian female soldier in this elite unit.
Komaitai’s journey in rugby has been remarkable considering her late entry into the sport. After shifting from netball, where she had a solid athletic background, she began playing rugby during her military service. She quickly garnered attention, going on to win the 2024 Women’s Super League title with the rugby league team York Valkyrie. This history illustrates her rapid development and adaptability in sports.
Expressing her excitement about joining the Harlequins, Komaitai stated, “This really feels like an environment where I can flourish.” Her enthusiasm reflects her commitment to growth and her intention to make a positive contribution to her new team. The Harlequins will kick off their Premiership Women’s Rugby campaign with a home match against Loughborough Lightning at Twickenham Stoop, where fans are eagerly anticipating her debut.
Komaitai’s signing aligns with the trend of increasing recognition for Fijian athletes in both rugby union and league. With a growing cohort of talented women stepping into the spotlight, her story serves as an emblem of hope, resilience, and the potential to inspire future generations of female athletes in Fiji and beyond. As the rugby community welcomes her, there is a palpable sense of optimism for the upcoming season and for women’s rugby as a whole.