The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua is poised for an exciting 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season with the addition of six new recruits who bring a combination of youthful energy and valuable experience. The team has welcomed Temo Mayanavanua, Iosefo Namoce, Joji Nasova, Angelo Smith, Manasa Mataele, and Issak Fines-Leleiwasa to strengthen their lineup.
Temo Mayanavanua, who recently played with the Northampton Saints in England, is expected to contribute critically with his seasoned leadership abilities. Joji Nasova, recognized for his breakthrough performance in sevens, was a standout during the year, being part of the 2025 HSBC SVNS Men’s Dream Team and a capped Flying Fijian this year.
Iosefo Namoce, who has experience on the Fiji 7s team at the 2024 Oceania 7s, joins the Drua after a successful stint with the Gungahlin Eagles in Australia. His exceptional playmaking skills will bolster the centre position for Drua.
Angelo Smith, a 24-year-old flanker from the Melbourne Rebels, brings versatility and a strong competitive spirit after playing in the local Skipper Cup competition. Meanwhile, Manasa Mataele, previously with the Crusaders and Western Force, adds depth, having a proven track record in high-stakes matches across 58 games.
Rounding out the new signings is Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, whose prior experience with the Western Force and ACT Brumbies showcases his capability to compete at an elite level, especially in the fly-half position.
In addition to these fresh faces, the Drua squad will feature 29 capped FIJI Water Flying Fijians players and promote four development players to the main team, reflecting an ongoing commitment to nurturing local talent. This combination ensures a core group of seasoned professionals, enhancing the overall team dynamics.
With a rich blend of fresh talent and experienced players, the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua is gearing up for a competitive season filled with potential for significant achievements. Fans are eager to see how the integration of these new recruits will translate into impressive performances on the field, promising an exhilarating year ahead in Super Rugby.
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