Fiji’s Olympic gold medalists Jerry Tuwai and Waisea Nacuqu have joined the Mumbai Dreamers in India’s Rugby Premier League (RPL). This historic league features seven Fijian players and promises to elevate the sport’s profile in India. The Dreamers faced the Chennai Bulls in their first match, suffering a defeat with a score of 5-24.
Tuwai is stepping into the role of co-vice-captain along with Canadian Elias Hancock, while Nacuqu has earned the nickname ‘Wasooli Bhai’ or ‘Game Breaker’. Other notable Fijian athletes participating in the league include Terio Tamani, Joji Nasova, and Filipe Sauturaga for the Chennai Bulls, as well as Iowane Teba competing for the Bengaluru Bravehearts.
The league aims to enhance rugby’s popularity in India through competitive matches featuring international talent. Coaching the Chennai Bulls is former Fiji 7s head coach Ben Gollings. Meanwhile, former All Blacks 7s coach Tomasi Cama Jr. leads the Delhi Redz.
The involvement of these elite Fijian players showcases the growing global interest in rugby and offers a promising avenue for the development of the sport in India. The league not only aims to entertain but also aspires to inspire future generations of rugby players in the country.
As the tournament progresses, fans remain hopeful for an exciting display of talent on the field, with the potential for Mumbai Dreamers to improve in upcoming matches. Their journey in this inaugural league illustrates a positive step forward for both the players and rugby in India.
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