Injured Derenalagi Out For Rest Of Season

Stand-in Swire Shipping Fijian Drua captain Meli Derenalagi is out for the rest of the Super Rugby Pacific season.

Head coach Mick Byrne, in announcing the team to take on Crusaders tomorrow, said Der­enalagi and prop Meli Tuni would undergo immediate surgery for their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

"The injuries and required rehabilitation mean both players are out for the reminder of the season; this is a significant setback for Drua," Byrne said.

"This is a difficult decision to make, however, it has been taken with the health of our players first and their longevity as athletes," he said.

"It is also in the interest of the Drua to ensure that they undergo surgery immediately, as this gives them the best chance of being available for the start of the next season."

Also out this week is Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, who is recovering from a broken nose sustained last weekend against Moana Pasifika.

Nemani Nagusa returns to his role as captain at Number 8.

Feeback: karalaini.waqanidrola@fijisun.com.fj