Tevita Daugunu, a former captain of Fiji’s rugby sevens team, has made a triumphant return to local rugby sevens, competing with the BLK Lavidi Brothers at the recent RC Manubhai 7s tournament. Although the team fell short in the final against Daugunu’s previous squad, the tournament marked an exciting comeback for the veteran player after his overseas stint.
Having spent time playing 15s rugby for the Eastman Warriors in Canada, Daugunu expressed his enthusiasm for being back in the sevens arena, noting the physical nature of local tournaments as a welcome challenge. At 32 years old, Daugunu, who was part of the Fiji 7s team that secured a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, is currently competing for a spot on the Lavidi squad for next month’s Coral Coast 7s tournament.
He highlighted the competitive atmosphere within the team, remarking on the high expectations placed on Lavidi Brothers due to their strong performance in previous tournaments. With other talented players, such as former Fiji 7s representative Livai Ikanikoda and former Silktails player Sefanaia Vuli, Daugunu acknowledged that securing a spot in the final lineup will be a considerable challenge.
This return heralds a fresh chapter for Daugunu, reflecting his resilience and dedication to the sport. The anticipation surrounding the upcoming Coral Coast 7s serves as a promising backdrop for Daugunu and his teammates, as they strive to build on their legacy and showcase their skills on a larger stage.
Overall, this thrilling comeback adds an invigorating dynamic to local rugby sevens, inspiring both new players and fans alike to embrace the competitive spirit of the game.
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