Nakarawa joins Tailevu Rugby

Veteran former Flying Fijians lock Leone Nakarawa has been registered with the Fresh Choice Tailevu rugby team for the Skipper Cup competition.

This was confirmed to SUNsports yesterday by Tailevu team manager Pita Naidrolevu.

This week, the 38-year-old signed with the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for next year’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.

Nakarawa had been played for Castres in the French Top 14 competition for the past three years.

“We’re expecting Nakarawa to join camp next week,” Naidrolevu said.

He also said Nakarawa is currently finalising his contract with the Drua officials and won’t be playing in today’s clash against McDonald’s Nadi at Churchill Park, Lautoka.

“Preparations have been on track throughout the week and we have reviewed our recent game against Nadroga, so we can get back on track,” Naidrolevu said.

“We made a lot of errors against Nadroga, especially with knockons, giving them a lot of chances. Nadroga capitalised on them and those were the areas that caused us problems, but I thank the boys for their effort.”

Tailevu drew 25-25 with Nadroga last Saturday, but Naidrolevu believes the team can bounce back against Nadi.

“Nadi is a good and competitive side and we will not take this game very lightly. They have the advantage since they are hosting the game, but we will try our best to win. We have a winless away record against Nadi and we are aiming for a win. Nadi has won all three of their previous games and we are expecting a tough encounter.”

Tailevu Rugby Union president Joseph Rodan (Snr) also confirmed that Nakarawa was part of the union’s plans.

“He is on the coaches’ list,” Rodan said. Naidrolevu urged Tailevu supporters to turn out in big numbers for the clash.

The match kicks-off at 6pm.