Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has expressed his ambition for Meli Derenalagi to excel as the top blindside flanker in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition. Jackson revealed in a recent interview with SUNsports that Derenalagi has been relieved of his captaincy to allow him to concentrate solely on his performance on the field.
“Meli is on board with us on the decision so he can just focus on his rugby,” Jackson stated, emphasizing the importance of Derenalagi’s individual development.
In a strategic move for the upcoming 2025 season, Jackson has appointed hooker Tevita Ikanivere and seasoned halfback Frank Lomani as the Drua’s co-captains. “Both have been here for a long time; professionalism on and off the field. That means it is a great choice for them to lead us into the 2025 season,” he said, expressing enthusiasm for the decision as it marks the first time the club will have co-captains.
The Drua squad announcement also brought some surprises, including the notable omission of center Apisalome Vota, along with Michael Naitokani and prop Jone Koroiduadua, who has signed with a team in Major League Rugby in the United States.
This strategic reshuffle within the team highlights a commitment to fostering talent and effective leadership. The decision to focus on Derenalagi’s development while introducing dual leadership shows a proactive approach to building a stronger team dynamic as they prepare for the upcoming season.
With the new season on the horizon, fans can look forward to a revitalized Fijian Drua squad that appears ready to tackle the challenges of the competition with fresh leadership and focused individual players.
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