The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua is preparing to assemble a robust squad for the upcoming 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby competition. As they strategize for the new season, forwards coach Chris Gibbes indicated that two specific positions, No.6 and No.8, need reinforcement.
Gibbes clarified that rather than reshuffling current players like Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, affectionately known as ‘Big T’, he plans to explore other options to fill these crucial roles. The team’s recent addition, flanker Joseva Tamani, returning from a stint with French club Colomiers, is anticipated to be an asset in this regard. Tamani, who impressed during his previous season with the Drua, is recognized for his speed and ability to capitalize on loose balls, making him a potential lead choice for one of the open positions.
Additionally, the young talent Isoa Tuwai has garnered attention for his versatile performance within Suva Rugby’s ranks. Tuwai’s journey from inside centre to flanker signifies a promising evolution as a player. Gibbes expressed confidence in the flexibility of their recruits, asserting that both Tamani and Tuwai can effectively contribute to filling the identified gaps.
The Drua’s ambition remains strong as they aim to build on their successes from the past two years, where they reached the Shop N Save Super Rugby quarterfinals consecutively. Fans can look forward to their participation in the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens set for January 16-18, where they’ll compete against notable teams including the Seattle Barbarians and the All Blacks 7s.
In preparation, hopeful young players such as Isikeli Rabitu, Philip Baselala, and Aisea Nawai are vying for a spot on the Drua 7s team this upcoming season.
As the Drua team takes a brief break to enjoy the festive season with family and friends, they are expected to return with renewed vigor as they gear up for another competitive year ahead.
This is an exciting time for the Fijian Drua, as they work towards solidifying their roster, fostering young talent, and maintaining their competitive edge in the world of rugby. With a strategic focus and a roster full of potential, the team is setting itself up for a promising season.
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