Explosive young winger Taniela Rakuro is set to make his debut for the Swire Shipping Fiji Warriors side today in the number 11 jersey, pairing Paul Dolokoto on the flanks.
The 22-year-old caught the eye of national selectors after his sterling first season with Farebrother Sullivan Trophy holders Nadroga.
The Vusuma villager from Nadroga said he never had the faintest idea that he would get the chance to represent his country.
“If you told me a few years ago that I would represent Fiji, I would laugh it off and say that you are joking,” said Rakuro.
“I never expected it and I love the experiences and opportunity so far. I am fortunate enough to rub shoulders with experienced players in local rugby and with Fijian Drua players and I can assure everyone that I am ready to do my nation proud.”
The former Nadroga Arya College student said he never played rugby in high school and was amazed at how far the sport was taking him.
“I never played rugby in school or even participated in the Deans Trophy competition. I only played soccer all throughout and got my first taste of the sport back in 2019 with the Tuva Youth team in the under-19 competition at the Coral Coast 7s.
“My performance at the 7s tournament prompted me to join the Police 7s side until Nadroga coach Etonia Naba included me in the wider squad this year.
“This is the first year for me to play in the 15s version of the game and I am grateful to have a crack at national selection, all in my first year.”
Rakuro is eyeing a spot in the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua side and lucrative overseas offers.
“I will perform and play to the best of my abilities and hopefully be good enough to get an offer to play rugby professionally.
“I would love the opportunity to play for the Fijian Drua or take up rugby offers from overseas. I love playing the sport and I aspire to get better every day.”
