The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has officially signed Flying Fijians fullback Vuate Karawalevu on a permanent contract. Karawalevu made his international debut for the national 15s team during the Pacific Nations Cup match against Samoa last Friday, where he scored a try and contributed to Fiji’s 42-16 victory over the Pacific rivals.
At just 23 years old, he recently played in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific for the NSW Waratahs in 2024. He also has experience in Rugby League, having represented Fiji Bati at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup. Karawalevu’s background 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 NRL.
Karawalevu expressed his enthusiasm about returning home to join the Fijian Drua and playing in front of passionate fans. “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,” he said. He also shared his readiness for this new chapter and his gratitude for the opportunity to represent his roots.