The Fijian Drua has officially announced the signing of Vuate Karawalevu, a versatile utility back for a full-time contract. The 23-year-old made his international debut for the Flying Fijians during the Pacific Nations Cup match against Samoa, where he played as a full-back, scored a try, and contributed significantly to Fiji’s 42-16 victory.
Previously, Karawalevu represented the Fiji Bati national rugby league team at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup in England at just 20 years old. He also participated in the last season’s Super Rugby Pacific competition with the NSW Waratahs.
Having played as a first five-eighth for Naitasiri in the 2020 Skipper Cup, where the team reached the grand final, Karawalevu has had stints with the Kaiviti Silktails in the Ron Massey Cup and the North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup. He has also been part of the Sydney Roosters’ setup in the NRL.
Expressing his enthusiasm about joining the Drua, Karawalevu stated, “I am incredibly excited and blessed to join this new club. It’s an honor to play for my home team, and I can’t wait to give it my all on the field. I’m ready for this new chapter and grateful for the opportunity to represent where I come from.”