TWENTY-NINE capped Flying Fijians, seven new signings and a fresh coaching panel have locked in the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s squad for the 2027 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.
The squad for its sixth Super Rugby season was announced yesterday and retains eight players from the Drua’s first season in 2022.
Sailing through the competitive Super Rugby waters with barnacles of experience and various wins and losses stuck to its hull, the team will be equipped with the seasoned experience of renowned signings and a team with most players fresh off of the Nations Championship.
Former skipper Meli Derenalagi will return in Drua colours next season after a long rehab period and once he’s done aiding Nadi in the final of the Skipper Cup against Nadroga this Saturday.
Adding fuel to the Drua’s fire for fiery victories next season are the inclusion of its new head coach Brad Mooar, who was handed the reins of the top job from his predecessor Glen Jackson.
Jackson is now the head coach of the US Major League Rugby team, the California Legion.
Meanwhile, joining Mooar is former England international Mike Catt, named senior assistant coach in charge of backs and attack.
Ifereimi Rawaqa returns to the team leading the forwards pack, while Campese Ma’afu is the scrums coach and Alando Soakai oversees defence.
Dr Dale Thomas has been named the team’s clinical and performance psychologist coach.
The Super Rugby season kicks off on Saturday, February 13, 2027.
Forwards: Loosehead props – Emosi Tuqiri, Haereiti Hetet, Meli Tuni, Peni Ravai. Hookers – Kavaia Tagivetaua, Mesulame Dolokoto, Penaia Cakobau, Sairusi Ravudi. Tighthead props – Harold Rounds, Inoke Ravuiwasa, Mesake Doge. Locks – Leone Nakarawa, Meli Derenalagi, Manueli Ratuniyarawa, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua. Back-rowers – Isi Naisarani, Isoa Tuwai, Josefa Namosimalua, Kitione Salawa, Motikiai Murray, Vilive Miramira.
Backs: Half-backs – Frank Lomani, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Philip Baselala. Fly-halves – Ben Volavola, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Kemu Valetini. Centres – Iosefo Namoce, Maika Tuitubou, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Virimi Vakatawa. Outside backs – Epeli Momo, Isikeli Rabitu, Isikeli Basiyalo, Joji Nasova, Manasa Mataele, Nacani Boginisoko, Taniela Rakuro.
