Fijian Drua star Virimi Vakatawa’s remarkable rugby comeback has reached another milestone, with the former France international named in the Barbarians squad to face world champions South Africa this week.
Vakatawa joins an experienced Barbarians side that also includes former Wallabies Izack Rodda and Andrew Kellaway for the highly anticipated clash against the Springboks.
Kellaway had already been confirmed as part of the squad and will start on the wing, while Rodda has been named on the bench.
For Vakatawa, the selection marks another chapter in an extraordinary return to elite rugby after his career appeared over less than four years ago.
The powerful centre was forced to retire from French club Racing 92 in 2022 after being diagnosed with a heart condition that prevented him from continuing his career in France.
However, Vakatawa returned to professional rugby a year later with English club Bristol Bears in a move that generated considerable debate because of the medical concerns surrounding his earlier retirement.
Earlier this year, the New Zealand-born midfielder joined the Fijian Drua and quickly re-established himself as one of the side’s most influential players.
His impressive performances earned him selection in Fiji’s extended squad ahead of the inaugural Nations Championship, further fuelling hopes of an international return in the white jersey.
