THREE players of Fijian heritage are eyeing Super Rugby glory with the Hurricanes when they face the Chiefs in the Super Rugby Pacific final this Saturday.
At the forefront is hard-running lock Isaia Walker-Leawere, who will lace up for his final match in Hurricanes colours — his 92nd appearance for the Wellington franchise.
Walker-Leawere’s next move takes him offshore, with the 28-year-old set to join Benetton before continuing his professional career in France’s Pro D2 competition.
Walker-Leawere’s experience at the highest level could be a major boost to the national pack should he make himself available for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Also in the Hurricanes squad is utility back Jone Rova, whose versatility has become a key weapon for the Hurricanes this season.
Rova’s ability to cover multiple positions across the backline has given the Hurricanes plenty of options, but it is his impact off the bench that has stood out.
Whether at second five-eighth, wing or fullback, the young Fijian has shown composure beyond his years.
And with the Flying Fijians looking to strengthen their backline depths in specific positions ahead of the World Cup, Rova shapes as a player who could slot straight into inside centre or fullback if he chooses to wear white.
His attacking instinct, footwork and game awareness make him one to watch.
On the wing, Kini Naholo’s form has been impossible to ignore.
Since returning from injury, Naholo has been one of the Hurricanes’ most dangerous
finishers, bringing pace, power and confidence back into their attack.
His strong return has not only helped drive the Hurricanes into the final but has also put him firmly in the frame for All Blacks selection later this year.
With the Super Rugby title on the line, all three players have a chance to make their mark on the biggest stage.
For Fiji rugby fans, Saturday’s clash will be more than
just a final — it will be a reminder of the growing influence of Fijian talent in the professional game and perhaps a glimpse of what could strengthen the Flying Fijians in the years ahead.
The Hurricanes meet the Chiefs tomorrow at 7.05pm at the famed ‘Cake Tin’ in Wellington, New Zealand.
The finale between both teams sees a new champion emerge this year after the Chiefs heavily defeated the Crusaders 49-12 last week.
Rova
Naholo.
