Former Flying Fijian and Crusaders winger Nemani Nadolo has expressed his dissatisfaction with the treatment of the Fijian Drua Men’s team prior to their match against the Hurricanes in Napier, New Zealand, two weeks ago. A viral social media post highlighted that members of the Drua were transported in the back of a truck carrying their luggage to the hotel, an incident Nadolo found frustrating and indicative of inequitable treatment.
He contrasted this with the experiences of Super Rugby teams visiting Fiji, who are treated with high regard, enjoying police escorts and superior hospitality. “Every time Super Rugby franchises visit Fiji, they’re treated like royalty with police escorts and top-tier hospitality,” Nadolo remarked.
This treatment has been a recurring theme in Nadolo’s previous discussions about the challenges faced by the Drua as they work to carve out a respected place in the Super Rugby Pacific. He remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, encouraging players to reduce mistakes and stay disciplined on the field.
Fijian Drua captain Frank Lomani joined Nadolo’s sentiments following a narrow loss of 38-34 to the Hurricanes, acknowledging the critical errors that led to their defeat. He emphasized the potential of the young talents in the squad and their resilience, offering a hopeful perspective as they look ahead.
As the Drua prepare for their upcoming match against the Waratahs, fans are optimistic that the team will learn and grow from these experiences. The solidarity showcased by players like Nadolo and Lomani reflects a shared dedication to enhancing the Drua’s performance and standing in the league, fostering positive prospects for the season ahead.
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