Swire Shipping Fijian Drua player Virimi Vakatawa is set to take on the role of inside centre as his team faces Moana Pasifika this afternoon at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Despite concerns regarding his age and fitness level, the experienced winger emphasized the value he brings through his extensive experience.
Speaking to Times Sport prior to a recent pre-season trial match against the Chiefs in New Zealand, Vakatawa acknowledged the skepticism surrounding his fitness but expressed gratitude for the opportunity to mentor younger teammates with the knowledge he gained during his career in France. He stated, “I think people might be questioning my fitness… I’m just so thankful that with my experience, I can help these young boys.”
Vakatawa’s rugby journey is noteworthy. He was honored as the European Player of the Year in 2016 and boasts a record of 32 caps for the French national team, along with significant contributions to clubs like Racing 92 and the Bristol Bears. Sadly, a discovered cardiac anomaly before the 2019 Rugby World Cup cut his time in French rugby short, making his subsequent transition back to Fiji all the more significant.
His impact on the field was felt last year during his appearance for Naitasiri in the Skipper Cup, where he played a crucial role in pushing the team to the finals. With family as his foundation, Vakatawa highlighted their unwavering support, particularly after welcoming a newborn son, who inspires him to share his rugby experiences. “Family is always the backbone of my rugby career; wherever I go, I always take them with me,” he noted.
This afternoon, Vakatawa will compete against Ngani Laumape of Moana Pasifika, a former New Zealand All Black who has experience in Japan. The match is highly anticipated, with Vakatawa expressing excitement about being part of the Drua for this new season.
The match will kick off at 3:30 p.m., offering fans a thrilling encounter as Vakatawa continues to demonstrate that age is merely a number in the world of rugby. His journey serves as a testament to resilience and the importance of mentorship in sports.
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