Former Natabua High School Under-16 rugby rep is now turning heads in the French Top 14 competition.

At the age of 20, Inia Tabuavou broke into the Racing 92 line-up this season. He plays at centre. In his third outing, Tabuavou scored a try in their 32-19 win over Lyon on Saturday while Kitione Kamikamica came in as an impact player.

Tabuavou is deemed as the man to replace Virimi Vakatawa, who recently announced his retirement because of a heart condition.

Tabuavou joined Racing Metro academy in 2020 and the coaching set-up there involves former Fiji-born All Blacks winger Joe Rokocoko.

Former Fijian Under-20 flanker Taniela Ramasibana in his second game for Perpignan scored a try but they were beaten 43-8 by La Rochelle, who played without Levani Botia.

The 21-year-old, Ramasibana broke into the limelight while playing for Ratu Kadavulevu School in the Vodafone Deans Trophy.

Flying Fijian winger Jiuta Wainiqolo scored a try for Toulon as they pipped Clermont 30-29 in a thriller.

Elusive centre Sireli Maqala scored a try for Bayonne but it was not enough as they suffered a 26-16 loss to Stade Francais who fielded Sefa Naivalu at centre.

Mata back

Good news for Flying Fijians head coach Vern Cotter, when No.8 Viliame Mata returned from injury and started for Edingburgh as they steamrolled Dragons 44-6 in their United Rugby Championship clash.

In the Gallagher Premiership, Sam Matavesi played for Northampton Saints as they beat London Irish 38-22 with veteran lock Api Ratuniyarawa coming from the bench.

Story By: Leone Cabenatabua

Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj