FLYING Fijians lock Temo Mayanavanua has announced that he has signed a two-year deal with the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, starting in 2026. The 27-year-old player will transition to the Drua after fulfilling his national duties, further demonstrating the trend of Fijian players returning home from overseas clubs.
Mayanavanua, a former Suva Grammar School student, joined the Northampton Saints after the 2023 World Cup and has since made 35 appearances, contributing a try to his team’s successes. Before his time in England, he spent three years at Northland in New Zealand and had a stint with Lyon in France. His international career for the Flying Fijians kicked off in 2020 against Georgia, and he has since earned 25 caps.
In addition to his impressive club career, Mayanavanua has also served as captain for the Fiji under-20 team, playing alongside Drua co-captain Frank Lomani. His switch to the Fijian Drua aligns with a growing movement of Fijian athletes returning to their roots to enhance local rugby teams, a trend seen in the signings of other notable players in recent seasons.
The announcement of Mayanavanua’s signing is a positive indication for the future of Fijian rugby. It highlights the commitment of players to develop the sport locally and provides inspiration to young athletes across Fiji. As the Fijian Drua gears up for the upcoming Super Rugby season, the inclusion of experienced players like Mayanavanua is expected to bolster the team’s performance and foster a new generation of talent in Fijian rugby.
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