Meli Derenalagi has been named as this season’s captain for the 2024 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
The 25-year-old Flying Fijians loose forward has been with Fijian Drua since its inception and a standout leader on and off the field through the Club’s first two seasons.
Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Head Coach Mick Byrne said Derenalagi is no stranger to the role having been the captain last season.
“We look forward to seeing him take on the challenge once again as we head into 2024 Super Rugby Pacific competition with seven crucial home games here in Fiji,” Byrne said.
“As a young leader, this is a learning process for Meli and we are confident that he will continue to grow even further,” he said.
“He will be strongly supported by the leadership of Mesake Doge, Tevita Ikanivere and Iosefo Masi.
“This group of men has been an immense support to me and my coaching staff.”
Derenalagi’s sporting career:
- 2020 Olympic Gold Medal winning Fiji 7s team
- Made appearances for the Flying Fijians during the 2023 Rugby World Cup
- 19 appearances for the Drua since his debut in 2022.
- Two tries in the Super Rugby Pacific competition
- Recipient of the 2023 Drua Try of the Year award after his season-defining try against the Hurricanes last year
