Drua secure Hetet, Rabitu and Rakuro in long-term deals

Three players have extended their stay with the Fijian Drua. They are loosehead prop Haereiti Hetet, utility back Isikeli Rabitu and winger Taniela Rakuro.

Hetet, a Drua Original, will continue his journey through to the end of the 2027 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific, his sixth sea­son with the club.

Rakuro, also a capped Flying Fijian and rising star Rabitu will stay for a further two seasons, until the end of 2028. Reflect­ing on the importance of the re-signings, Drua head coach Glen Jackson said: "It's exceptional for the club to secure three out­standing players. Hetet is a quality loose­head prop and a vital part of our group. As a Flying Fijian and Rugby World Cup player, having him re-sign with the club is a huge boost.

"Sike is one of the brightest young talents I've seen since he first arrived and he's cer­tainly part of the club's future. "Taniela is a quality player who enjoyed a strong NPC season, has returned in great shape and we're excited about what he'll bring."

Hetet has made 39 appearances, scoring one try, and has earned 24 caps for the Fly­ing Fijians between 2020 and 2025.

"I'm very grateful and I enjoy my time here at the Drua," he said.

"With new signings and players returning home for the first time, and the way we're trying to play, I want to thank the coaches and management for trusting me to stay on."

Rabitu made his club debut during the 2024 season.

He has since made 14 appearances, scoring four tries. The Tailevu lad tran­sitioned directly from the secondary school ranks after representing Suva Grammar School in the Vodafone Deans Trophy competition and also featured for the Fiji U20s in 2022.

"I thank the Almighty God for guiding me throughout my rugby career. I'm also grateful to the Drua management and coaching staff for their trust and for ex­tending my contract. I feel truly blessed to continue my journey with the Drua." Ra­kuro is Drua's second highest try scorer with nine, level with co-captain Frank Lomani. The man from Vusama in Na­droga has made 23 appearances since making his debut in 2023.

Rakuro's strong form earned him

his Flying Fijians debut in last year's Pacific Nations Cup match against Tonga in Suva, and he has earned five caps.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to extend my contract with the Drua and thankful to the management for their belief in me and allowing me to contin­ue with the club."

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