Flying Fijians captain, Semi Radradra, is grateful of the opportunity that allowed him to become an Olympian.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday; Radradra said he did not see himself becoming an Olympian let alone winning an Olympic gold medal.

“The Olympics was something I did not dream about but it just happened for me,” he said.

‘Tm so grateful to the Lord for the blessings that come with the challenge.”

The Bristol Bears centre who is rated as one of the world’s best said, it was the players around him that inspired him to step-up since his fitness level was lower than theirs.

“I thank the coaching staff and the boys for their trust in me to be involved with them.

“To be with this young squad, these players have left an impression on me.

“The vibe and the bond we had was something else and that was the catalyst needed for the win.”

Radradra is hoping to travel to Taveuni to spend time with his family before returning to England.

Maqala confirms Drua move

Team Fiji men’s rugby sevens rising star Sireli Maqala has confirmed that he is not joining French club Bayonne.

Maqala told SUNsports yesterday that he would take up the offer to play for the Fijian Drua in next year’s Super Rugby.

He said the Fiji Rugby Union felt the offer by the recently relegated Top 14 club did not reflect his achievements.

“I would rather play for pride than for money on any given day;” he said.

“I have been given an opportunity to stay in Fiji and play professionally by joining the Drua and be available for the 2022 Sevens Rugby World Cup where the Melrose Cup will be at stake.”

Maqala flies to his home in Labasa today; where he would undergo four-day of quarantine before joining his family.

Tuivuaka to sort out offers Strong tackling Asaeli Tuivuaka is eyeing a contract with the Fijian Drua to play in next year’s Super Rugby.

The robust 25-year-old utility who scored a try in the 27-12 win over New Zealand in the final told SUNsports yesterday that he

is keeping his fingers crossed for a possible contract with the Drua.

“If a contract if offered I will take it with both hands,” he said.

“I have had some offers but will sort it out. I want to do it with an open mind but my top choice is to play for the Drua.”

Tuivuaka also indicated that he would make himself available for future sevens outings and with the 2024 Paris Olympic Games in mind.

“I thank the Lord for giving me the strength,” the Namosi native said.

“I personally felt it was a pleasant journey to the Olympics. I’m now settled and there is always a chance to build up on my strength and fitness. I will be always be ready when ever the nation needs my service.”

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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