The Fijian Drua has officially announced the signing of utility back Vuate Karawalevu on a full-time contract. The 23-year-old made his debut for the Flying Fijians in the recent Pacific Nations Cup match against Samoa, marking the beginning of his international rugby career.
Previously, Karawalevu represented the Fiji Bati at the age of 20 during the 2021 Rugby League World Cup held in England. In his debut game against Samoa, he played as a full-back, scoring a try and playing a vital role in Fiji’s 42-16 victory.
Last season, he was part of the NSW Waratahs in the Super Rugby Pacific. A former student of Marist Brothers High School, Karawalevu played as a first five-eighth for Naitasiri in the 2020 Skipper Cup competition, where the team reached the grand final.
He has also played for the Kaiviti Silktails in the Ron Massey Cup, the North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup, and was included in the Sydney Roosters’ setup in the National Rugby League.
Excited to return home, Karawalevu expressed his eagerness to join the Drua and play in front of passionate fans. He stated, “Feeling incredibly excited and blessed to join this new club. It’s an honour to play for my home team, and I can’t wait to give it my all on the field. Ready for this new chapter and grateful for the opportunity to represent where I come from.”