Swire Shipping Fijian Drua winger Vinaya Kunaturaga Habosi is ready to do his nation proud in the Pacific Nations Cup next month.
The robust winger was a standout for the local Super Rugby Pacific side in their first season and it came as no surprise when he was named in Vern Cotter’s Flying Fijians 34-member squad alongside Olympic gold-medallist Josua Tuisova, Jiuta Wainiqolo and Western Force winger Manasa Mataele.
When asked how he felt about being named alongside players of that calibre in the wing position, Habosi said it was surreal.
“I am humbled to be part of this squad,” he said.
“When I saw my name in the team list, I was really happy and I received well-wishes from family members and friends. This is my second time to be a part of the squad and I will make it my mission to wear the national jersey this time. I know Tuisova and Mataele have been playing for quite a while and have made a name for themselves. It would be an advantage for me to learn some tricks of the trade from them.”
Habosi said he was proud of his Drua team mates who were part of the PNC squad too.
“It is amazing to see 15 other Drua players be ing part of this squad. I know it was only our first season in the Super Rugby Pacific competition and it was an honour to be a part of the group. To see local players get recognised is a step in the right direction for rugby in the country.”
He said many clubs got in touch after the season ended and he was kept his options open.
“My first aim is to represent my country well next month and I will leave everything up to God.”
Habosi welcomed the birth of his namesake son on Sunday night. He aims to make a statement for the Flying Fijians against Samoa, Tonga and Australia A at the ANZ Stadium in Suva and Churchill Park in Lautoka.
