Fiji drua duo to join Barbarians

Fijian Drua centres Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Virimi Vakatawa have been selected to join the prestigious Barbarians FC ahead of their clash against South Africa on June 20 and Wales on June 27.

Fijian Drua general manager Rugby Baden Stephenson said this is a tremendous achievement for Tuidraki and Vakatawa.

“Everyone at the Fijian Drua is proud of their selection,” he said.

“The Barbarians jersey is one of the most iconic in world rugby and earning the opportunity to wear, it is a recognition of their talent, hard work and performances on the field.

“Tuidraki continues to go from strength to strength, and this maiden call-up is thoroughly deserved, while Vakatawa’s return to the Barbarians highlights the quality and experience he brings to our environment.

“We wish them all the very best and look forward to seeing them showcase their talents on the international stage.”

The Barbarian's FC is coached by former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson and the squad is now camping in Cape Town, South Africa.

The selection is a first for Samusamuvodre, who has continued to impress since joining the Drua, making 31 appearances and scoring three tries. His performances have also earned him two caps for the Flying Fijians.

Vakatawa returns to the Barbarians set-up for a third time after previous appearances in 2022 and 2024. The experienced midfielder has enjoyed a strong debut season with the Drua, featuring in 10 matches and scoring once.

Waqa joins Provence

Meanwhile, former Drua blindside flanker Etonia Waqa is joining French ProD2 club Provence.

The club has confirmed Waqa’s inclusion.

Provence won the ProD2 competition and played USA Perpignan in the promotion relegation match where they lost 47-24 last Sunday.

Also, to be playing alongside Waqa is former Drua team-mate Caleb Muntz, Albert Tuisue and winger Setareki Bituniyata.

Earlier on, Drua halfback Simione Kuruvoli has joined Valence