After local media reports surfaced on Wednesday of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s latest signing of Wallabies scrumhalf Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, the club confirmed it in a press release yesterday.
Fines-Leleiwasa has joined the Drua franchise following his departure from the Western Force, appearing for the team in this year’s edition of Super Rugby Pacific.
In joining the club, he adds the experience he had in the competition, having made 45 appearances for the Western Force and 11 for the ACT Brumbies.
These appearances for the two Australian clubs, coupled with his speed, accuracy and ability to marshal the movement of forwards were some attributes listed by the club when it announced his signing.
Fines-Leleiwasa, via the club’s statement of his signing, expressed his optimism at the opportunity to embrace the Fijian roots he has through his father and links to Vatani, Kaba in Tailevu.
“A new chapter for me and my family, being a part of the Drua family will be special not only with the club but also the Fans, I can’t wait for this next challenge,” Fines-Leleiwasa said.
As he becomes a part of the Fijian Drua, it also opens up the opportunity to national representation with the Flying Fijians.
His father’s links to Tailevu make him eligible to don the white jersey however at present, his three-year international stand-down period that expires in October 2026 is the hurdle he must leap over to make it happen.
Fines-Leleiwasa is also a Wallabies player, having made his debut for the golden jersey against France in 2023, and had played six Tests.
Meanwhile, Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson welcomed the signing and relayed his excitement at having Fines-Leleiwasa on board.
“Issak is a good leader and an outstanding rugby player. He will help to lead our team with Frank, Simi and as well as young Philip, it’s a position that is important in any team and we are lucky to have the depth with international quality players,” Jackson said.
