Fijian Firepower Set to Ignite Super Rugby Pacific This Weekend
38 Players of Fijian Descent Bring Speed, Power, and Flair to the Global Stage
This weekend’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition will showcase the immense talent of players with Fijian heritage, with around 38 such athletes taking the field across various teams. The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will contribute 23 players to this count as they gear up to take on the NSW Waratahs. The Waratahs have named Langi Gleeson on their bench, adding another Fijian touch to the clash.
The Crusaders, in their Friday night fixture, will feature halfback Noah Hotham, Levi Aumua, Chay Fihaki, and prolific winger Sevu Reece, who is just two tries shy of becoming Super Rugby’s all-time top try scorer. George Bower will also come off the bench for the Crusaders.
Over at the Blues, head coach Vern Cotter continues to trust in dynamic No.8 Hoskins Sotutu. Meanwhile, the ACT Brumbies, with powerful flanker Rob Valetini at No.6, head to Pukekohe to face Moana Pasifika.
The Chiefs will have Emoni Narawa on the wing when they host the Highlanders, who boast a strong Fijian influence with Veveni Lasaqa, Jona Nareki, co-captain Timoci Tavatavanawai, and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens in the starting XV. Hooker Soane Vikena adds further depth from the bench.
The Hurricanes also feature rising lock Isaia Walker-Leawere as they travel west to face the Western Force in Perth. With such a broad representation of Fijian talent across multiple franchises, this weekend promises thrilling rugby and a celebration of Pacific Island flair on the field.
