Fijian Drua winger Taniela “Motopai” Rakuro has officially signed with the Yarrows Taranaki Bulls for the upcoming 2025 Bunnings Warehouse NPC season. This strategic acquisition comes in response to the recent season-ending knee injury of Kini Naholo, as Taranaki aims to fill the void left by the experienced player with a like-minded athlete.
Head Coach Neil Barnes expressed confidence in Rakuro’s capabilities to meet these expectations. “When you lose a player like Kini, you have to find someone who brings similar impact. Taniela’s a class finisher with all the traits we value in a Taranaki player. He’s physical, hard-working, and team-first. We’re thrilled to bring him in,” Barnes stated.
At 25 years old, Rakuro is anticipated to contribute significantly to the squad as they prepare to defend their Ranfurly Shield. He is expected to join the team pending the approval of his work visa in the coming weeks. Fans can look forward to the announcement of the full 30-man squad for the 2025 season, which is set to be revealed shortly across Taranaki Rugby’s digital platforms.
This signing reflects Taranaki’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the league, especially after injury setbacks. Rakuro’s previous performances, particularly his tenacious style of play highlighted in his recent outings with the Drua, suggest he will be an asset to the Bulls. His dedication and experience from the Drua, where he honed his skills, provide a hopeful outlook for Taranaki Rugby as they build toward the upcoming season.
With young talents like Rakuro stepping into pivotal roles, the Bulls’ roster is poised for an exciting season as they aim for success in the 2025 Bunnings Warehouse NPC.
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