Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, a flanker for Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, has returned to New Zealand for personal reasons, as confirmed by head coach Glen Jackson. Cirikidaveta is currently dealing with a knee injury while also being present for his wife, who is about to give birth. Jackson stressed the importance of family, stating, “It was the right thing to do instead of being here and then have his wife having a baby and him not being home with her.”
Cirikidaveta, who has been with the Drua since 2022, has earned 28 appearances and has also represented Fiji with the Flying Fijians over the past two years. Jackson expressed gratitude for Cirikidaveta’s contributions and emphasized the team’s commitment to prioritizing player well-being.
As the Drua look to recover from two narrow losses in their recent matches, Jackson acknowledged the necessity for improved performance during critical moments. He believes the team’s bench players must step up, but remains optimistic about the mental resilience of the squad. Commenting on their close encounters with formidable opponents, including a recent tight match against the Hurricanes, he said, “Both games we could have won and probably should have won.”
In anticipation of their upcoming match against the Waratahs, the Drua are maintaining a positive outlook despite recent challenges. Jackson highlighted the importance of earning bonus points for their season standings and praised the mental strength shown by the team as they handle unexpected difficulties, including travel disruptions.
The Drua’s roster, featuring a blend of emerging talents and the expected return of Etonia Waqa, aims to put forth a strong performance. Fans are hopeful for an energetic display as the team navigates the competitive Super Rugby Pacific landscape. The Drua’s emphasis on family values, player welfare, and thorough game preparation serves as a source of encouragement for their supporters, showcasing the team’s collective spirit and determination.
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