The Fijian Drua has officially signed Flying Fijian utility back Vuate Karawalevu on a full-time contract. The 23-year-old made his Flying Fijians debut in the Pacific Nations Cup match against Samoa last Friday, marking his entry as a dual international.
Previously, Karawalevu represented the Fiji Bati in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup in England at just 20 years old. In the game against Samoa, he played as a full-back, scoring a try and making notable contributions in Fiji’s 42-16 victory.
Last season, Karawalevu played in Super Rugby Pacific with the NSW Waratahs. He had a standout performance as first five-eighth for Naitasiri during the 2020 Skipper Cup, where the team reached the grand final. His rugby career also includes stints with the Kaiviti Silktails in the Ron Massey Cup and the North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup, as well as involvement with the Sydney Roosters’ setup in the National Rugby League.
Karawalevu, comfortable as a fullback or on the wing, expressed enthusiasm about joining the Drua and playing for his home team. He stated, “Feeling incredibly excited and blessed to join this new club. It’s an honour to play for my home team, and I can’t wait to give it my all on the field. Ready for this new chapter and grateful for the opportunity to represent where I come from.”