FIJIAN rugby 7s star Semi Kunatani is the latest Vodafone Fiji 7s player to secure a contract with French Top 14 team Stade Toulousain.
He joined the likes of Samisoni Virviri, Benito Masilevu and Donasio Ratubuli, who now ply their trade in France after stints with the Fiji 7s team.
Kunatani will be allowed to join the Ben Ryan-coached team for the last four legs of the 2015/16 and the Rio Olympics.
A press release from Stade Toulousain yesterday confirmed Kunatani’s rugby move.
Club president Jean-René Bouscatel said they were very excited to have Kunatani in their team.
“Having seen the impact Semi has made in the world of 7s we are extremely confident he will be able to add another dimension to our proud team here in France,” he said.
“Based on our own observations along with many other knowledgeable people, we know Semi will be a great addition to our club and we are sure he will be very happy in Toulouse over the next two years.
“Semi’s highs this seasons include having scored a total of 37 tries in the series thus far, being named in three World Rugby Dream Teams’ (Gold Coast, Las Vegas and Glasgow) and most recently Semi was recognised by Sir Gordon Tietjens, when he was named by Sir Gordon in his Hong Kong 7s Dream Team.
“Listing Semi Kunatani on his bench in an all time best 7s team, joining Waisale Serevi, Jonah Lomu, David Campese, Eric Rush and many other greats of the game.”
Kunatani was grateful to finally secure a contract at the same time he still has the opportunity to represent Fiji at the Olympics if selected.
“I love representing Fiji and of course representing the vanua and it is for this reason that I am taking this opportunity to play rugby at the highest level with Toulouse,” said the Yamacia captain.
“I also requested that I be allowed to continue my journey with the Fiji 7s team and this condition was for me very important as I would like to help Fiji win gold in Rio and I have committed myself to the Fiji 7s team if I am selected by Ben.
“I am just so grateful that Toulouse have given me this assurance I can join Ben and the boys for the last four legs of the 2015/16 series as a preparation for the Rio Olympics.
“We have worked so hard this past season to secure our place in Rio which is very special for me.”
FRU board member and Yamacia rugby club official Jay Whyte said he was proud of Kunatani’s achievement.
“I am obviously very proud of Semi and his achievements as a rugby player. Having represented the Fiji 7s on debut at Dubai 2013 he has gone on to become arguably the best player on the world circuit,” he said.
“I am so happy for Semi and his family that this opportunity has come to someone so deserving.
“The hard work and dedication has been rewarded with this new challenge and I also note the support given by Ben Ryan as both Semi and Ben have discussed his future on many occasions.”
“Semi is wonderful as he is on the field his off-the-field personality and his respectful ways endear him to all who meet him.”
Fiji 7s coach confirmed the tough forward would be considered for the Rio Games.
“Semi Kunatani will leave us next season for Toulouse. He will be released for four World Series tournaments and Olympics if he gets selected,” said Ryan.
Meanwhile, Kunatani will play a vital part for the Fiji 7s team in this weekend’s England 7s.
