The Fijian Drua has officially announced the signing of Flying Fijians utility back Vuate Karawalevu on a full-time contract. The 23-year-old made his debut for the Flying Fijians during the Pacific Nations Cup match against Samoa, which took place last Friday, marking him as a double international.
Karawalevu previously played for the Fiji Bati at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup in England when he was just 20 years old. In the match against Samoa, he played as a full-back, scoring one try and contributing significantly to Fiji’s 42-16 victory.
Last season, Karawalevu participated in the Super Rugby Pacific with the NSW Waratahs. He originally played first five-eighth for Naitasiri during the 2020 Skipper Cup competition, where his team reached the grand final. His career also includes stints with the Kaiviti Silktails in the Ron Massey Cup, the North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup, and involvement with the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League.
Expressing his excitement about joining the Drua, Karawalevu stated he is thrilled to return home and play in front of what he considers the world’s best fans. “It’s an honor to play for my home team, and I can’t wait to give it my all on the field,” he said. Karawalevu is ready for this new chapter and feels grateful for the opportunity to represent his homeland.