The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has officially signed Flying Fijians loosehead prop Peni Ravai on a full-term contract. Ravai, who has made 50 appearances for the Flying Fijians and scored five tries, will bring significant experience to the team.
In Super Rugby, Ravai has earned 27 caps with the Queensland Reds and scored three tries. A native of Tailevu, Ravai was a crucial member of the national team during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, which saw Fiji reach the quarterfinals for the first time in 16 years.
Ravai’s impressive resume includes playing for Southland in New Zealand’s Mitre 10 Cup, 12 matches with Aurillac in France’s Pro D2 where he scored three tries, and stints with Bordeaux-Bègles and Clermont Auvergne in France’s Top 14. Notably, he was the first international prop from Fiji to play in international 7s rugby in 2013, before joining the national 15s side later that same year and making his debut against Romania.
Reflecting on his new chapter with the Fijian Drua, Ravai expressed his enthusiasm: “I am excited to be going home where my rugby career began. It is a dream to be representing my family and country in Super Rugby Pacific. I want to give back to the younger Drua squad through my experience and knowledge of the game. Helping the players to perform week in, week out will also be a goal. I’m also hoping to learn more from the Club as the season progresses.”
Ravai will join the Fijian Drua following the conclusion of the 2024 Flying Fijians campaigns.