The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has officially revealed its 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby squad, which includes 32 Flying Fijians, featuring national co-captain Tevita Ikanivere. This announcement follows a successful off-season recruitment campaign, with five new signings, all of whom are Flying Fijians, expected to significantly enhance the team’s performance. Notably, three members of the squad are Silver Medalists from the Rugby 7s event at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The team has also introduced a development squad, showcasing emerging Fijian talent who are on the path to achieving greater recognition in the sport in the years ahead. Head Coach Glen Jackson expressed confidence in the team’s composition, noting that the retention of key players from the previous season, combined with the experience of new signings from overseas, has created a well-balanced squad. Jackson highlighted the return of Joe Tamani from France, who previously energized the team in its first two seasons.
For the first time in the Drua’s history, co-captains were appointed, with hooker Tevita Ikanivere and halfback Frank Lomani sharing leadership responsibilities. Ikanivere praised the opportunity and the faith the coaching staff placed in him, while Lomani expressed his excitement and emotional pride in being recognized as co-captain. Both players bring invaluable experience, having participated extensively in Super Rugby and representing Fiji at an international level.
New recruits include Peni Ravai, a seasoned front-rower with 50 international caps, and Inia Tabuavou, a tough center joining the squad from Racing 92 in France. Vuate Karawalevu returns to Fiji after appealing performances with the NSW Waratahs, and Ponipate Loganimasi, a Silver Medalist from the Paris Olympics, has also joined the team. Rejoining the Drua is flanker Joseva Tamani, returning from Colomiers Rugby Club in France.
The squad features a solid roster, including Flying Fijian prop pairs Haereiti Hetet, Livai Natave, and Emosi Tuqiri among the loosehead props, with tighthead props including Mesake Doge and Peni Ravai. An all-Flying Fijian trio of hookers rounds out the front row, while the second row sees the inclusion of Isoa Nasilasila and others, alongside a robust back row stocked with formidable flankers.
Overall, the Fijian Drua’s preparations for the 2025 season and the strategic focus on building a deeper squad indicate a bright future for the team in the Super Rugby Pacific, with an emphasis on unifying experience and youth.
Comment: This announcement not only highlights the growth of Fijian rugby but also reflects the increasing prominence of the Fiji Drua within the global rugby landscape. With an infusion of talent and seasoned leadership, fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.
Summary: The Fijian Drua has unveiled its 2025 Super Rugby squad, featuring 32 Flying Fijians, with notable inclusions and a balanced mix of experience and youth. Co-captains have been appointed, showcasing leadership among talented players. New recruits bring additional strength, heightening prospects for a successful season.
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