Olympic gold medalist and former Flying Fijians center Semi Radradra has officially joined the Shizuoka Blue Revs in Japan’s League One. The talented 33-year-old is excited about the opportunity to team up with his former Bristol Bears teammate, All Black Charles Piutau, as well as South African star Kwaga Smith, who has also made a name for himself in the rugby world.
In expressing his enthusiasm about the move, Radradra stated that it is an honor to join the Blue Revs for the upcoming season. He looks forward to immersing himself in Japan’s rugby culture, meeting his new teammates, and starting pre-season training.
This move marks a significant transition for Radradra following a challenging stint at Lyon, where he struggled for game time and scored just one try in fifteen appearances. The Fijian’s decision to relocate to Japan comes after reports of multiple offers from Top League clubs, making this a promising opportunity for him to revive his career.
Radradra’s professional journey has been remarkable; he began in rugby sevens before making his mark in the NRL with the Parramatta Eels, where he scored an impressive 82 tries in 94 matches. After transitioning to rugby union, he played for Toulon and Bordeaux Bègles, before contributing to Bristol Bears’ European Challenge Cup victory in 2020.
With his considerable experience and versatility in various positions on the field—having played in the wing, center, and fullback—Radradra’s addition to the Blue Revs is expected to be a boon for the team as they strive for success in Japan’s competitive rugby environment.
This move not only reshapes Radradra’s career but also illustrates the growing global connections within rugby, fostering talent sharing across different leagues and elevating the sport’s international appeal.
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