Former national rugby union centre Epineri Taganesei Naituku, passed away on Tuesday at his older sister’s residence in Namadi Heights, Suva, following a short sickness.

Naituku, 56, had represented Fiji in the 1987 Rugby World Cup co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

New Zealand had hosted 20 matches– 17 pool stage matches, two quarter-finals and the final – while Australia hosted 12 matches– seven pool matches, two quarter-finals and both semi-finals.

Naituku played centre against Argentina in Hamilton which Fiji won 28-9 and Italy in Dunedin which Fiji narrowly lost 15-18.

Fiji lost in the quarterfinals to France 16-31.

Younger sister Ilisapeci Naituku- Rokobau, said Naituku had returned to Fiji from the United States two years ago following his niggling old injuries.

“There were numerous braces on his leg joints following injuries he sustained while playing,” Rokobau said.

The 1987 RWC side was coached by the late Ratu Josateki Sovau, technical advisor George Simpkin and managed by Dr Josaia Taka. The side was captained by Koli Rakoroi.

He is survived by his two children Elenoa Ranadi Naituku and Sairusi Naituku; his siblings Onisivoro Sausauwai, Asilika Ratabacaca, Sairusi Naituku, Ateca Rokoqica, Elisapeci Rokobau, Viliame Naituku, Waisea Naituku and Mereia Kedrayate.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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