NINETEEN months after his last competitive appearance, Ratu Meli Derenalagi returned to rugby in the most meaningful way possible by representing his home province Nadi for the first time in the Skipper Cup.
Derenalagi helped Nadi stun Skipper Cup leaders Naitasiri 27-23 at Ratu Cakobau Park last Saturday, ending his long lay-off with a statement victory in front of passionate supporters.
Having previously represented Suva in the competition, Derenalagi said wearing the Nadi jersey was a milestone he had been looking forward to.
“I’ve always played for Suva in the Skipper Cup. This is my first time playing for my province,” he said.
Starting at No.8 in his first competitive match since March 2025, the Fijian Drua flanker settled into the physical contest, with his experience and composure proving valuable as Nadi held off the competition leaders.
While his physical game did not dominate, Nadi coach Cohan Politini said Derenalagi’s leadership and game intelligence stood out most.
“His leadership and experience are something we will rely on during games,” Politini said.
“His experience and game IQ are important for us.”
Derenalagi said Nadi understood the challenge of facing Naitasiri on their home ground and trusted the plan prepared by the coaching staff.
“It’s always a challenge to play Naitasiri at their home ground,” he said.
“But the coaches had a plan for us and we executed it on the field.”
For Derenalagi, the victory was another important step in a comeback that has been difficult but has never extinguished his ambition of returning to professional rugby.
“Coming back from injuries was quite tough, but I kept that dream alive,” he said.
He has also been re-signed by the Fijian Drua.
