Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has assured fans that Jone Naqiri, a promising player, remains a vital part of the club’s future despite his omission from the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific squad. Jackson expressed satisfaction with the finalized 39-man roster, which features four players elevated from the Drua Development program. He highlighted the fierce competition within a country rich in rugby talent.
“We are very, very happy with our team,” Jackson remarked, praising the overall quality of the squad. He acknowledged that not every promising player can be included in the current lineup but emphasized that Naqiri’s exclusion does not indicate a lack of confidence in his abilities or potential impact on the Drua.
The depth of talent in Fiji presents significant challenges during the selection process, as Jackson pointed out. “When you can only select what you can, 39 players, and as we all know, this is a fantastic country of depth and talent. It’s not easy in professional sport,” he stated.
Jackson confirmed that Naqiri’s journey with the Drua is ongoing. “Jone’s representation with the Drua is not gone. He’s still very much part of our plans,” he stated. Naqiri has earned recognition for his strong performances in both the Drua development program and various local competitions, marking him as one of Fiji’s promising young forwards.
This commitment to the development of local talent reflects the Drua’s broader strategy under Jackson’s guidance, which emphasizes nurturing homegrown players while ensuring competitiveness on the international stage. The team’s efforts to scout younger prospects, as shown by Jackson’s engagement with under-20 competitors and local tournaments, highlight the Drua’s dedication to building a solid foundation for future success.
As the new season approaches, the Fijian Drua’s growing reputation and clear vision for player development foster optimism for exciting performances ahead, as they continue to cultivate emerging stars.