Onus Is On Us To Perform Better Says Derenalagi

The onus rest on the members of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua to perform says stand in skipper Meli Derenalagi.

Derenalagi, White Shark, a nick­name shared with his father, former 7s rep Ratu Vuniani Derenalagi is known for his sublime skill and of­floading ability.

The Nawaka, Nadi native who plays in the forwards made the comments during the opening of the new Drua Home Base at Waimalika, Nadi on Monday.

“It’s on us now, the boys to live up to the standard and come out this sea­son very competitively,” Derenalagi said.

He added that the state of art set up, a first in the region was great path­way for the present and aspiring Fly­ing Fijians including the Drua.

“It is an exciting moment for us to have our new home here in Fiji, this brand new facility. You know, we are looking forward to use it with the new season ahead of us.

“We have a home and all the equip­ment that we have dreaming of two years back – now we have that here at home. We don’t have to fly elsewhere to use these facilities.”

For his personal preparation, Dere­nalagi said it has been on par; he had taken an early exit from this year’s Pacific Super Rugby due to injuries towards the end of their first outing at the mentioned competition.

Derenalagi and prop Meli Tuni un­derwent surgery in May for their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, missing out on the last few matches in their debut season.

In his absence captain Nemani Na­gusa led the Fijians in the final lap of the 2022 season.

“For me, I am trying my best and putting in the efforts to get back on the field and join the boys,” he said.

All the players are scheduled to march into the home base today for their induction.

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