FORMER Fiji rugby international Ilaitia Savai is no more.
The towering lockforward passed away on January 22 at the Nadi Hospital at the age of 54 after a short illness.
He will be laid to rest at his village at Nakalawaca, Namalata, in Tailevu tomorrow.
His younger brother Reverend Manasa Levatabua said the family was saddened by his loss.
Savai, who was part of the national side to the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987, was one arguably one of the best secondrowers in the history of the national side.
He played alongside big names like former national halfback Paulo Nawalu, big kicking fullback Severo Koroduadua, exciting openside flanker Manasa Qoro, prop Mosese Taga, winger Tomasi Cama and fellow lockforwards Koli Rakoroi who was the skipper at the ’87 RWC and Nadi giant Asaeli Hughes, and Aisake Nadolo to name a few. Savai played at a time when lockforwards jumped freely in the lineouts. He was one of many naturally big forwards who donned the white jersey with the coconut tree emblem with great pride.
Savai, who started his rugby career with Nadroga, made his international debut against the Australian Wallabies on June 9, 1984 at the National Stadium (now the ANZ Stadium). He went on to earn 38 Test caps and scored three tries including one in the win over Argentina in the 1987 RWC.
Savai also played for Waikato in New Zealand before joining the Queensland side in Australia.
Rugby commentator Graham Eden said Savai was known for his prowess in the lineouts.
“He was a standout ahead of his of time, there is no doubt about it,” Eden said.
The Vodafone Flying Fijians assistant coach Alifereti Mocelutu said Fiji rugby has lost a great son. I was lucky to play with him in the latter part of his career. He was a respected player and very down to earth,” Mocelutu said.
“He was one of the best locks we had during that time and even now.”
Savai is survived by his wife and three children.
The reguregu will be held today.
