The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has confirmed the signing of popular Flying Fijians loosehead prop Peni Ravai on a full-term contract.
Ravai has made 50 appearances for the Flying Fijians, scoring five tries in the process. Additionally, he has 27 Super Rugby caps with the Queensland Reds, where he scored three tries.
He played a crucial role in the national team during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, helping them reach the quarterfinals for the first time in 16 years. Ravai is highly regarded by both coaches and teammates.
Ravai has also played for Southland in New Zealand’s Mitre 10 Cup and Aurillac in France’s Pro D2, where he made 12 appearances and scored three tries. In France’s Top 14, he has played for Bordeaux-Bègles and Clermont Auvergne.
The experienced front-rower is notable for being Fiji’s first international prop to play in international 7s rugby in 2013. He was later recruited to the national 15s side in the same year, debuting off the bench at hooker against Romania.
Expressing his excitement, Ravai said, “I am excited to be going home where my rugby career began. It is a dream to be representing my family and country in Super Rugby Pacific. I want to give back to the younger Drua squad through my experience and knowledge of the game. Helping the players to perform week in, week out will also be a goal. I’m also hoping to learn more from the Club as the season progresses.”
Peni will join the Fijian Drua after the conclusion of the 2024 Flying Fijians campaigns.