Fiji Under-20 rugby player Simon Koroiyadi has signed a contract with Benetton for the 2024-25 season. The backrower is set to team up with former Swire Shipping Fijian Drua utility player Onisi Ratave.
Earlier this year, Koroiyadi was part of the Fiji Under-20 team that participated in the World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa. The 20-year-old from Mudu, Koro in Lomaiviti made his debut for the club in a friendly match against Harlequins last Saturday.
Alongside Koroiyadi and Ratave, Phil Cokanasiga will also be joining the Italy-based club. Cokanasiga, who plays as a centre, is the younger brother of Bath Rugby and England international Joe Cokanasiga.
In the match against Harlequins, the Benetton Rugby lineup included Rhyno Smith at fullback, Paolo Odogwu and Marco Zanon on the wings, and Jacob Umaga at fly-half. The match saw a diverse set of players, with head coach Marco Bortolami leading the team.