The Fijian Drua take a further step towards strengthening their lineup ahead of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Chiefs in Lautoka this week, with Selestino Ravutaumada making a full recovery from his shoulder reconstruction surgery. Head Coach Glen Jackson expressed optimism at Ravutaumada’s availability, highlighting his dedicated recovery process after being sidelined for six months due to an injury sustained during the Pacific Nations Cup last year.
Jackson noted, “Stino is definitely available this weekend; he has done an amazing job looking after his shoulder. It has been a massive surgery, and he has taken it seriously in getting himself back on the field.” The Drua are fortunate to enter this match with minimal injury concerns, providing Jackson with an expanded selection of wingers, including recent additions Vuate Karawalevu and Olympian Ponipate Loganimasi.
Ravutaumada’s return is particularly significant as the Drua aim to overcome the Chiefs, who currently lead the competition. Previous seasons have shown that the Drua perform strongly at home, with last year’s record being only one loss in seven home matches. With this positive trend, both fans and players are filled with anticipation for the match, as it presents an opportunity for the team to assert themselves in the league amidst the returning talents.
Ravutaumada’s journey through recovery and determination serves not only to inspire his teammates but also young athletes in Fiji. His ambitions, which include a move to French club Racing 92 for the subsequent season, highlight the pathways for Fijian talents in international rugby, fuelling excitement about the potential success of both him and the Fijian Drua in the Super Rugby Pacific tournament and beyond. As the match approaches, both fans and players share a hopeful outlook for a compelling showdown against the Chiefs, eager to witness the impact of Ravutaumada’s comeback.
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