BITUNIYATA’S Pro D2 season has put his name back in conversations questioning why he is not a Flying Fijian after producing 14 tries, 88 broken tackles and a competition-best 43 offloads
Setareki Bituniyata has made his case in France, but nothing decided yet on whether there is still time to reopen the international door to join the Fiji team.
The former Uluinakau star has been nominated for Pro D2 Player of the Season after a stunning 2025-26 campaign with Provence Rugby — an individual recognition that puts him among the three standout players in France’s second-tier competition.
But it is the numbers behind the nomination that demand attention.
Bituniyata scored 14 tries, broke 88 tackles — the second-highest total in Pro D2 — and produced 43 offloads, the most in the competition. He was also selected in the official Pro D2 Team of the Season at outside centre.
For a player who began his journey through Lelean Memorial School and Cuvu College before making his name with Uluinakau, the rise has been remarkable. Bituniyata broke into Fiji’s sevens team in 2016 before moving to France, where he played for RC Massy, CA Brive and Stade Toulousain before joining Provence Rugby.
Now 30, the versatile back has shown he can operate on the wing or at centre, while his combination of power, broken tackles and offloading has made him one of the most productive attacking players in Pro D2.
The international question is therefore unavoidable.
When the Flying Fijians named their 32-man squad for the inaugural Nations Championship in June, acting head coach Senirusi Seruvakula said performance was the overriding factor, with players selected on what they were producing for their clubs.
Bituniyata was not selected.
That decision cannot now be changed for the Nations Championship second latter this year, which was played in July.
But Fiji’s next selection window presents another opportunity.
And if current performance remains the benchmark, Bituniyata’s 14 tries, 88 broken tackles, 43 offloads and Pro D2 Team of the Season selection have given the selectors plenty of evidence to examine.
From Uluinakau to the French professional game, Seta has done his part. The next move belongs to Fiji Rugby.
