Apolosi Ranawai will make an emotional return to Fiji on the field for the first time since 2018 when the NSW Waratahs take on the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva tomorrow afternoon. The 32-year-old prop described the outing as a “full circle” moment in his career, saying the chance to play in front of family and friends after eight years away has made the match especially meaningful.
Ranawai, a powerful front-rower for the Waratahs, said reconnecting with loved ones who he has not seen “in quite a while” adds an extra layer of significance to what is already a crucial Super Rugby Pacific fixture. The match, staged under the Shop N Save banner, will be broadcast live on FBC Sports, providing a homecoming stage for one of Fiji’s better-known forwards playing abroad.
On the field, Ranawai warned of a physical battle with the Drua’s pack but stressed the Waratahs remain concentrated on their own preparations. “Drua has a good forward pack, so at the moment we’re just concentrating on ourselves,” he said, acknowledging the forward-oriented contest that is expected in Suva. The Drua have been touted for their physicality in recent coverage and have shown resilience in their opening round performances, but have also been reminded by their coaches about the need to tighten discipline.
Ranawai’s return to Fiji comes as he chases regular game time with the Waratahs and contends with longer-term ambitions. He admitted that representing Fiji remains a dream, but insisted his immediate priority is “getting some games under my belt” and solidifying his place in the Waratahs’ rotation. The comments underline a common pathway for Pacific players who develop overseas while keeping the door open for national selection.
The visit also highlights the growing profile of Suva and HFC Bank Stadium as venues for high-level Super Rugby Pacific matches. The Drua’s home fixtures have become focal points for rugby fans in Fiji, and tomorrow’s clash with the Waratahs will be another opportunity for local supporters to see international-calibre players — both homegrown and visiting — contest at the national stadium.
With Ranawai back on Fijian soil, the match carries both personal and competitive stakes: a homecoming for the veteran front-rower and a stern test for the Waratahs against a forward-packed Drua side. The outcome will shape early-season momentum for both teams as the competition unfolds. The game will be shown live on FBC Sports.