Former New Zealand All Blacks star Eroni Clarke has praised the Fijian Drua for its impressive growth as it embarks on its fifth season in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition. Clarke shared these insights during the recent launch of the tournament in Auckland, New Zealand, reflecting on the team’s journey that began during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Drua, initially based in Lennox Hill, Australia, participated in the National Rugby Championship before entering the Super Rugby arena. Clarke expressed his pride in how both the Drua and Moana Pasifika have evolved. He emphasized the significance of the Drua’s success in Australia and the importance of maintaining that momentum in the Super Rugby, stating, “I’m so proud of the way the Drua and Moana Pasifika have done in such a short time.”
Clarke noted that the accelerated growth of these teams not only benefits their respective franchises but also strengthens the player pool for the Flying Fijians, as well as the national teams of Samoa and Tonga. He highlighted how the emergence of competitive teams can lead to a stronger representation for these Pacific nations on the global rugby stage, remarking, “It’s important that Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa start to really come through and show them becoming a world power.”
As he looks ahead, Clarke stressed the importance of ongoing support and development for these teams. He expressed hope that the Moana Pasifika and Drua continue to rise, underscoring their role in shaping the future of rugby in the Pacific islands. The two teams are set to clash this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka, an exciting matchup that fans eagerly anticipate.
Clarke’s legacy in rugby is also carried on by his son Caleb, a winger for the All Blacks and the Blues, showcasing the enduring impact of rugby in their family and the broader sporting community.
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