Former national sevens representative and Swire Shipping Fijian Drua backrower Ratu Meli Derenalagi will be sidelined for the rest of the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season due to a knee injury. Coach Glen Jackson confirmed that Derenalagi sustained the injury during a match against the Western Force two weeks ago and underwent surgery last week. As a result, he is expected to be out for 12 weeks.
In addition to Derenalagi, the Drua will face further challenges as both Ilaiasa Droasese and Kitione Salawa are also nursing injuries that may hinder their participation in the upcoming clash against the Crusaders. Jackson commented, “Unfortunately Meli Derenalagi is out for the season, injuring his knee there. Also, Droasese broke his wrist in the game, and Kiti Salawa has some bruising and strain on his quadriceps.”
Despite these setbacks, Jackson remains optimistic about the squad’s depth, stating they have a range of capable players to step in and fill the gaps left by the injured players. The Drua are set to encounter the Crusaders at the HFC Bank Stadium on Saturday at 3:35 PM, with hopes that the team can rally together for a strong performance.
The current situation mirrors similar challenges faced earlier in the season, where the Drua navigated through injuries to key players like Frank Lomani and Selestino Ravutaumada. Coach Jackson emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability, showcasing the team’s determination to overcome obstacles and maintain their competitive spirit throughout the season. Fans are encouraged to support the Drua as they face these challenges, with hopes that a unified team effort can lead to future victories.
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