Rising rugby talent Penaia Cakobau has been selected to join the Fiji Water Flying Fijians as they aim to reclaim the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup. This call-up is a significant step toward fulfilling his dream of donning the national team’s white jersey and competing alongside some of Fiji’s finest rugby players.
At 30 years old, Cakobau’s love for rugby ignited during his time at Queen Victoria School, where he contributed to the team’s victory in the esteemed Vodafone Under-18 Deans Trophy in 2011. Having established a strong reputation locally, he ventured abroad to advance his rugby career, playing in France before joining New Zealand’s North Harbor development team.
In 2018, Cakobau returned to Fiji to play for Suva’s Skipper Cup team, where he competed for three years. He later returned to New Zealand at the end of 2022, focusing on enhancing his abilities as a professional rugby player, with hopes of obtaining a Super Rugby contract.
“When I got the call, it was both thrilling and surreal,” Cakobau remarked. “At one point, I didn’t think I would receive this opportunity, but now it’s a new benchmark for me. I must work hard to keep my place in this environment.”
Being part of the Flying Fijians will allow Cakobau to learn from renowned players such as Captain Tevita Ikanivere and Mesulame Dolokoto. He aims to step into the position previously held by Kavaia Tagivetaua, determined to prove his worth on the field.
“Every rugby player has a list of accomplishments they aspire to achieve,” Cakobau stated. “You document those goals, motivate yourself, and put in the hard work, especially when no one is watching. Anything is achievable if you’re prepared to make the sacrifices.”