Rugby Icon Peni Ravai Hints at Retirement: A Legendary Career Comes Full Circle

Fijian rugby veteran and Flying Fijians prop, Peni Ravai, has expressed his contentment with his journey and hinted at the possibility of retiring soon. The seasoned front-rower joined the Fijian Drua squad five months ago and is currently undergoing rehabilitation. Reflecting on his career, Ravai said that ending it in Fiji, where it all began, would hold special significance for him.

A former student of Ratu Kadavulevu School, Ravai has accumulated an impressive rugby résumé. He earned 27 Super Rugby caps with the Queensland Reds and made 50 appearances for the Flying Fijians, scoring five tries in the process. He was instrumental in Fiji’s historic 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign, where they reached the quarterfinals for the first time in 16 years.

Throughout his career, Ravai has showcased his versatility, playing for Southland in New Zealand’s Mitre 10 Cup and various French clubs, including Aurillac, Bordeaux-Bègles, and Clermont in the Top 14. Notably, he became the first international prop to feature in the World Rugby Sevens Series in 2013.

Now, as an elder statesman in the Drua squad, Ravai is mentoring young props, answering their questions, and sharing his wealth of experience. His journey has come full circle, and retiring with the Drua would mark a fitting conclusion to his illustrious career.