Leading at home special for Mayanavanua

Former Northampton Saints lock Temo Mayanavanua is honoured to co-captain the Fijian Drua with Frank Lomani as they set to sail on February 14. 

The Cautata, Bau, Tailevu native who has played 38 matches with the Premiership club is excited to play before his family and friends and backed by the local spectators. 

The former Suva Grammar School student has captained the Fiji Under 20 side where he played alongside Lomani. 

“It’s pretty significant to be honest,” Mayanavanua said. 

“I mean I’ve first met Frank (Lomani) when we were in the academies and stuff and he’s still the same person- still energetic. His leadership skills are second to none as well and to be beside him and being co-captain as well, there’s nothing more I look forward to.” 

Mayanavanua moved back to Fiji with his wife son which the 28-year-old said was special and a privilege. 

“I have a young son who’s just growing up and to bring him home, get him around the culture, the family is something really special to me.” 

He said his appointment to be co-captain was a pleasant surprise; he thanked the Drua team and management for believing in him. 

“I wasn’t expecting this much of a role but I thank the organisation, hopefully we get a good season that we’re all working hard towards,” he said. 

He added the Drua squad includes a special group of brilliant players who are ambitious. 

“We are looking forward to this season more than anything,” Mayanavanua said. 

“We’re putting in the hard yards to make sure that not only us but our friends, our fans in Fiji and around the world are satisfied.” 

The Drua will be hosted by the Chiefs in their pres-season match on January 30 before they face the Skipper Cup Select XV team on February 6 at Churchill Park, Lautoka. 

“I’ve heard that they (Skipper XV) have been preparing really well. I’m pretty sure it’s going to be one hell of a clash and we call it the clash of Fiji,” he said. 

“I’m pretty sure there are young players, ambitious, talented or hungry as well to be in this spot. 

Mayanavanua is calling out fans to come in numbers to witness the historic clash in Lautoka. 

“We’re calling on people if they can come and see massive hits, fancy offloads and Fijian flair at its best,” he added. 

The Fijian Drua will kick off the season against Moana Pasifika at Churchill Park, Lautoka on February 14. 

Meanwhile, Mayanavanua has played 34 matches for the Flying Fijians so far; he made his debut in 2020 against Georgia, 

He played for Northland Taniwha in New Zealand since 2017 for three years before joining Lyon in France in 2020. He was signed by the Saints in 2023 following the Rugby World Cup in France.