The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has unveiled its squad for the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby season, featuring a total of 32 Flying Fijians, including the well-regarded national co-captain Tevita Ikanivere. This announcement follows a successful recruitment season in which all five new players signed are Flying Fijians, promising a notable contribution to the team in the forthcoming competition.
Among the selected squad members are three Silver Medalists from the 2024 Paris Olympics Rugby 7s team. The development squad is rich with promising young talent, poised to achieve greater success in the years ahead.
Head Coach Glen Jackson expressed confidence in the balance of the squad, highlighting that it has retained most of its players from the previous year. New players, some returning from overseas, are anticipated to inject fresh energy into the team. Notably, Joe Tamani, who previously brought excitement to the Drua, will be returning after a year away.
Ikanivere, who has long been a focal point in the squad, has numerous past leadership experiences. He holds the record for the most appearances for Fijian Drua with 38 games, and he is pivotal, being only second behind the club’s all-time try scorer with ten tries. Lomani, now co-captain, boasts the most experience in the squad with 53 appearances and is among only two players to have achieved over 100 points in Super Rugby Pacific.
The team has seen the addition of several notable players, including the 50-Test capped Peni Ravai from the Queensland Reds and tough centre Inia Tabuavou from France’s Racing 92. Other exciting signings include Vuate Karawalevu and Ponipate Loganimasi, who brings recent Olympic experience to the squad.
Rounding out the roster, the Drua showcases a robust set of forwards and backs, laden with talent and potential. Ikanivere expressed gratitude for the captaincy role, while Lomani shared his excitement about the journey the team has made and looks forward to the challenges ahead.
In summary, the Fijian Drua has solidified its roster with promising talent and seasoned players, setting the stage for an exciting 2025 Super Rugby season. As the players and coaching staff prepare for the upcoming challenges, the team’s cohesive spirit and strong leadership will be pivotal in their pursuit of success.
This is a hopeful moment for the Fijian Drua as they continue to build on their strengths, with an exciting mix of experience and youth. Fans can look forward to an exhilarating season filled with passion and dedication from the players.
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