Swire Shipping Fijian Drua debutant Isikeli Basiyalo is set to live out a lifelong dream when he runs onto Churchill Park today, marking a proud milestone in his journey from the village of Volivoli in Nadroga to the Super Rugby stage.
“I wasn’t expecting to play on Saturday but I have been preparing well this season,” Basiyalo said.
The call-up came midweek, a moment that stirred both joy and nerves for the young backline utility.
“I was told on Wednesday morning that I will play and I was happy and emotional when they told me. I know it’s not an easy job.”
Like many young Fijian players, family was the first thing on his mind.
The former Cuvu College student wasted no time in sharing the news.
“I called my dad to tell him that I was playing and he was excited.”
Hailing from the village of Volivoli in Nadroga, with maternal links to Nabukelevu on Kadavu, Basiyalo carries not just his own ambitions, but the hopes of his people.
His journey to Super Rugby level has been built on discipline and steady progress. A product of Cuvu College, Basiyalo rose through the ranks to represent the Fiji Under-20 side in 2023 and 2024, before earning a spot in the Drua development system.
His talent did not go unnoticed, with national 7s coach Osea Kolinisau calling him into the Fiji Airways Fiji 7s squad. He made his international debut at the Hong Kong 7s in March last year, gaining valuable experience on the world stage.
Known for his strong work ethic and versatility, Basiyalo is comfortable across the back three, covering both wing and fullback an asset that has helped him earn his place in the matchday 23.
After a full season with the Drua development squad in 2025, his hard work paid off when he secured a full-time contract with the main squad for the 2026 season.
Now, the young Nadroga man stands on the brink of his biggest test yet and he is calling on the support of the home crowd to lift the team.
