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. He has also accumulated 27 Super Rugby caps with the Queensland Reds, contributing three tries.
Ravai played a significant role in the national team’s journey to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, their first time reaching this stage in 16 years. He is highly respected by both coaches and teammates.
Previously, Ravai played for Southland in New Zealand’s Mitre 10 Cup, Aurillac in France’s Pro D2 (with 12 matches and three tries), and Bordeaux-Bègles and Clermont Auvergne in France’s Top 14.
The experienced front-rower is also notable for being Fiji’s first international prop to play international 7’s rugby for his country in 2013. He was then recruited into the national 15’s team the same year, debuting off the bench as a hooker against Romania.
Ravai expressed his excitement about joining the Fijian Drua, saying, “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 Ravai will join the Fijian Drua after the conclusion of the 2024 Flying Fijians campaigns.