The Fijian Drua has officially announced the signing of utility back Vuate Karawalevu on a full-time contract. The 23-year-old made his debut for the Flying Fijians in the recent Pacific Nations Cup match against Samoa, marking his status as a double international.
Previously, Karawalevu represented the Fiji Bati team in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup in England, debuting at just 20 years old. In the game against Samoa, he played as a full-back, scoring a try and contributing significantly to Fiji’s 42-16 victory.
Karawalevu had a stint in last season’s Super Rugby Pacific with the NSW Waratahs. He began his rugby journey at Marist Brothers High School, playing first five-eighth for Naitasiri during the 2020 Skipper Cup, where the team reached the grand final.
He later joined the Kaiviti Silktails in the Ron Massey Cup, and the North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup, also being part of the Sydney Roosters setup in the NRL.
Expressing his enthusiasm about joining the Drua, Karawalevu said he is thrilled to return home and play in front of dedicated fans. He expressed his eagerness to contribute fully to the team and embraced the opportunity to represent his roots.