Radradra Out
Flying Fijian star centre Semi Radradra, 30, is out of the Autumn Test.
England’s Premiership Bristol Bears Rugby Director, Pat Lam has confirmed on Bristol Live that there are discussions about Radradra’s role in the Bears’ comeback and his Fiji Autumn call-up.
Despite numerous social media post by Radradra about his return following his recovery from his knee injury Lam has disclosed on Bristol Live that Radradra was not fit to play in the Autumn Test due to his knee injury.
According to Lam, Radradra is not returning anytime soon.
“He is training and stuff, but coming off the surgeries he has had, I would say we are looking at a November return now,” Lam told Bristol Live.
“It is one of those situations where we are working with the surgeon, Jonathan Webb, and with our medical team.
“He is out running which is good. But it is the same with Siva Naulago, Stevie Luatua, Semi, we just want to make sure we get it right and they don’t break down again.
“He (Radradra) is on track. One of things we are making sure is that he doesn’t come back too soon.
“My main focus is the guys who are playing but he is not too far away. I am not going to push him because when he comes back I want that to be it, and he will play the rest of the season.
“Semi Radradra’s scheduled return for ‘early October’ has clearly been delayed as Bristol Bears’ medical department take every precaution to ensure their marquee man is firing on all cylinders when he runs out on the field.
“Radradra is recovering from a second knee surgery in the space of two years.”
The Fijian superstar has not played a game since April when Bristol Bears were knocked out of the Heineken Champions Cup by Sale Sharks.
Last week Radradra was on Flying Fijians head coach Vern Cotter’s 31-member squad to face Scotland, Ireland, and French Barbarians for their autumn tour.
Yesterday Fiji Rugby chief executive officer John O’Connor confirmed that Radradra has been dropped and would be replaced by Adrea Cocagi.
Flanker Johnny Dyer has apologised and is also back in the fold preparing for the autumn tour.
Feedback: simione.haravanua@fijisun.com.fj
