Front rows hold key in Fiji opener

Canada women’s rugby coach Kevin Rouet has plenty of options when it comes to choosing his front row at the Rugby World Cup. But DaLeaka Menin is usually one of the first names on the Canadian team sheet. 

“For me, she’s the best tighthead (prop) in the world,” said Rouet. 

“There is no question.” 

Menin is an important part of the Canadian team, a powerful ball-carrier who can break tackles as well as make life miserable in the scrum for opposing props.

She is a definite starter against Fiji in their Pool B opener on Sunday morning (Fiji time). 

The Canadians who are ranked second in the world are looking for a convincing win against the 14th ranked Fiji to boost their campaign. 

Menin’s presence is going to be a challenge for Fiji props of Vika Matarugu, Tiana Robanakadavu, Loraini Senivutu and Wainikiti Vasuturaga. 

“She’s an incredible player,” said Canadian captain Alex Tessier. 

“And often overlooked, I think. She’s not only a good scrummager, but she does so much more in the open field. She understands the game super-well. 

“Probably the only skills that she’s missing right now are her kicking skills, but you don’t expect a prop to kick, so that’s all right,” she added with a laugh.” 

Menin and second-ranked Canada open Group B play Saturday against No.14 Fiji in York, England, at the expanded 16-team tournament. 

It’s a third World Cup for the 30-year-old from Vulcan, Alta., who plays her club rugby in England, joining the Exeter Chiefs ahead of the 2021-22 season after three seasons with the Loughborough Lightning. 

One of a half-dozen Canadians on Exeter’s roster, Menin enjoys living in the southwest tip of England. 

“Being an Alberta girl, living near the coast is very exciting, so I do love that,” she said. 

She also savours the chance to play at a high level with talent from around the world, as well as England. 

Rouet was able to bring on the Exeter front row trio of Menin, Emily Tuttosi and Mikiela Nelson off the bench in the Pacific Four Series opener against the US on May 2 in Kansas City, a game that saw Rouet rotate his roster. 

“Me and Emily, we’ve known each other since university” said Menin, referencing the University of Calgary. 

“It’s fun to have someone that you know so well to go to, whether it’s a bad day or a good day,” she added. 

Away from rugby, Menin has a degree in law and society/sociology.

“My parents, bless them, have really pushed us to go to university, and I really thank them for that,” she said. 

“Do I have a degree that I’m unsure exactly where it will lead me in life? Maybe.”

(Additional information from CBC).