SCRUMHALF Leone Nawai made the most of his return to the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua jersey, stepping up as injury cover for Frank Lomani in their 28-14 win over the NSW Waratahs at Churchill Park last Saturday.
Originally from Narewa, Nadi, Nawai said the match held special meaning for him.
“This is my first time playing in front of my home crowd and my first match against an Australian team.
“Back in 2022, I only played against New Zealand teams,” he said.
The win marked a huge moment for the team and Nawai, who said the players were united in their mission.
“We talked throughout the week and told each other to put our bodies on the line. I’m happy we showed that in Lautoka,” he said.
With a crucial clash against Moana Pasifika next, Nawai said they’re not getting ahead of themselves.
“We’ll take things step by step,” he said when asked about the push for a top six finish.
Now part of a new halfback rotation with Simione Kuruvoli and Phillip Baselala, Nawai said they’re committed to finishing the season strong.
“We respect each other, and we’ll hold hands till the final game,” he said.
Nawai was part of the Drua squad in 2022 but saw limited game time behind the likes of Lomani, Kuruvoli and Peni Matawalu.
After that season, he moved to New Zealand and signed with the Taranaki Bulls in the Bunnings NPC.
His strong performance there earned him a spot in the Chiefs squad for 2025.
“When I finished my contract in 2022, I didn’t give up,” he recalled.
“I signed with Taranaki, learned a lot, and was surprised when I got the call to cover for Frank.”
As for next season, Nawai remains tight-lipped.
“I can’t confirm anything at this stage,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Drua will face Moana Pasifika on Saturday at 4.35pm at the North Harbor Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. The Drua must win this match.
