England winger Joe Cokanasiga is hoping for a better rugby season in 2020.

The 22-year-old who plays for Bath in the English Premiership arrived in the country with his younger brother Phil, who plays for the England U20 and London Irish.

The Deuba, Serua native hopes he recovers from a knee injury sustained during the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

“I am not sure how long I will not be playing but I’m being referred to a specialist and will consult him again when I return,” he said.

“It has been a good year.

A lot of things happened looking back and as I entirely can’t believe it has happened.

“I thank my family and God for everything that has happened. I’m grateful for all that has happened in my life.”

Cokanasiga scored twice in the victory over Japan 45-7 at RWC.

“It was special scoring two tries as it was my first RWC. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. I took the opportunity with both hands,” he added.

He is in the country especially for her elder sister Misi’s wedding which will be held at the Novotel Suva Lami Bay on Saturday.

“I’m here for my sister’s wedding. It has been a long time coming back to Fiji since 2013.

“It is good to be back here to see my family. I want to thank all the Fijian people who have supported me over here and abroad.”

Before his first birthday, he moved to England with his father, Ilaitia, who was in the British Army.

He has lived in Germany and Brunei as his father toured those countries and learned to play rugby.

They formed a father-son centre partnership for the Army Vets team before returning to the UK in 2013.

Joe cites All Black Jonah Lomu as his hero as well as Julian Savea, David Boland and Bath wing Semesa Rokoduguni as his idols.

He returns to England on Sunday.

Edited by Osea Bola

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