SWIRE Shipping Fijian Drua 19-year-old scrum-half Philip Baselala has developed with a wealth of lessons from his intense rugby training with the Drua.
From breaking old habits to overcoming the fear of asking questions, Baselala shares how these experiences have helped shape his rugby career.
“There are a lot of things I have learned this season, from training to the rugby field and especially pushing yourself when you are tired.
“One of the main challenges I have to overcome this year is asking questions to senior players; this is always in our iTaukei mind-set, we are always shy to ask questions and we are always reminded by the senior players to ask as it will develop our rugby knowledge,” said Baselala.
The former Suva Grammar School standout, who garnered attention as the standout scrum-half this season, has earned his spot in the main squad for the upcoming year.
Baselala expresses newfound confidence for 2024, attributing it to the challenges and learnings encountered during the past season.
He extends gratitude to senior players for their support and emphasises the importance of honesty in his work.
“All those challenges that I went through this year and all those learnings I have gained confidence for next season. I acknowledge the senior players for always helping us junior players and I have also learnt to be honest with my work,” he added.
With the level of preparation the team is at now, the Solotavui, Kadavu native believes they will win all seven home games and secure a home quarterfi nal spot.
“We will try to win all our seven home games, our pre-season training has gone up another level, it’s tough and we have faith that we will definitely help the team secure that home quarterfinal.”
Baselala highlights the team’s unity as a driving force for success.
“My biggest motivator on the rugby field is my teammates. Despite not being blood related, the squad’s strong camaraderie becomes a powerful motivator on the rugby field.”
