The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua is preparing to assemble a competitive squad for the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby season. Forwards coach Chris Gibbes has announced that the team is focusing on strengthening two key positions: No.6 and No.8. Rather than reshuffling current players like Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, affectionately known as ‘Big T’, Gibbes is looking to other options.
The return of flanker Joseva Tamani, who has just finished a stint with French club Colomiers, is seen as a significant enhancement. At 27 years old, Tamani is noted for his agility and speed on the field and is expected to make a substantial impact in filling one of the identified positions, having previously appeared in 13 matches for the Drua during the 2022 season.
In addition to Tamani, young rising star Isoa Tuwai is expected to contribute at No.6 and No.8. Tuwai, currently playing for Suva Rugby in the Skipper Competition, has made a name for himself transitioning from inside centre to flanker, capturing the attention of rugby fans.
Gibbes is optimistic about the team’s versatility, noting that many players can fulfill multiple roles. The aim is not only to reinforce the squad but also to sustain their momentum, especially after reaching the Shop N Save Super Rugby quarter-finals for two consecutive years.
Looking ahead, the Drua is set to showcase their talent at the upcoming McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens, taking place at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka, from January 16-18 of the next year. Among the hopefuls looking to make the Drua 7s team are rising talents like Isikeli Rabitu, Philip Baselala, and Aisea Nawai, to name a few.
After a restful break spent with family and friends, the Drua team plans to resume training as they gear up for what promises to be an exciting season ahead.
This article highlights the efforts of the Fijian Drua to build a formidable team while integrating new talents, showcasing a commitment to growth and competitiveness in rugby. Such initiatives offer hope for fans and players alike as they look forward to an action-packed season.
Leave a comment