Saukuru set for Drua debut

Watching daily sporting activities at Apisai Toga Oval in Saunaka, Nadi inspired Elesi Saukuru to pursue rugby and eventually earn a place in the Fijian Drua Women squad this season.

Saukuru hails from Nabouwalu, Ono, Kadavu, with maternal links to Saunaka, Nadi. She attended Nadi District School before continuing her education at Nadi Muslim College.

The Nadi women’s prop only took up rugby in 2024 after regularly watching games and training sessions at the busy community ground known as Apisai Toga Oval, named after rugby league legend Apisai Toga.

“It was always lively at Toga Oval in the afternoons,” Saukuru said.

“There would be rugby, touch rugby, netball and volleyball, with so many people around. Seeing that environment motivated me to take up rugby.”

Saukuru played netball through-out primary school before making the switch to rugby in Year 12.

“I was drawn to rugby because in Saunaka, rugby is part of the community,” she said.

“I’m proud to be among the first girls of my generation from Sau-naka to come through in women’s rugby.”

One of her proudest achievements so far was helping Nadi win the Under-19 competition before reaching the senior women’s final against Suva the following season.

Reflecting on her Drua journey, Saukuru said wearing the jersey for the first time was an unforgettable experience. She is expected to make her official debut against the Waratahs in the opening round of the Super W season on June 6.

“I’ve always watched the Drua from afar, but to finally wear the jersey in a preseason match was

unbelievable,” she said.

“I’m living the dream — not only representing myself, but also my family and my vanua.”

Saunaka has produced several notable rugby players over the years, including late Flying Fijian Ratu Sela Toga, Olympian Vatemo Ravouvou, Samu Saqiwa, rugby league brothers Apisai Toga and Inisia Toga, Jo Lotawa, and for-mer Fiji representative and coach Jo Savou.

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj