Former rugby star Manasa Mataele is set to make waves as he returns to Fiji to represent the Fijian Drua for the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season. This upcoming season marks a significant milestone for Mataele as it will be his 10th year in Super Rugby, but this time he will don the colors of his home team.
Mataele, originally from Vanuavatu in Lau, boasts an impressive record of 58 Super Rugby appearances—32 with the Crusaders, 24 with the Western Force, and 2 with the Chiefs. His performance has consistently stood out as he holds notable statistics in clean breaks and line breaks, often leading match stats in these areas. In 2022, he ranked second in the entire competition for clean breaks and meters gained, showcasing his offensive prowess and playmaking abilities.
Expressing his excitement about returning home, Mataele stated, “I’m feeling excited and really looking forward to representing the Drua next season.” This sentiment was echoed by Fijian Drua General Manager Rugby, Baden Stephenson, who praised Mataele as a “quality player” whose experience and skills will greatly benefit the Drua’s young backline as they look to enhance their competitiveness in the league.
Mataele’s journey in rugby began with the Fiji under-18 team in 2015, and he made his debut for the Flying Fijians in 2021, adding to his international experience. He will now be part of the wave of Fijian players returning to bolster local teams, similar to other recent signings such as Temo Mayanavanua, reflecting a growing trend towards nurturing local talent within Fiji’s rugby framework.
As Mataele prepares to rejoin the Drua, it signals not just a return to his roots but a commitment to inspiring the next generation of Fijian athletes, emphasizing a hopeful future for Fijian rugby. The revitalization of local teams through the influx of talented players underscores the promise of thrilling performances and a potential uplift in the competitive landscape of the sport.
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