Smith anticipates 1st Drua cap

Former Melbourne Rebels lock Angelo Smith is looking forward to his first run with the Fijian Drua this season. 

The Nananu, Tailevu lad with maternal links to Kabara, Lomati, Lau was one of the three international signing for the franchise last year. 

The 25-year-old did not play any Super Rugby Pacific matches last year with Waratahs. 

“It means a lot to join the Drua this year,” Smith said.

“I played my rugby away from home. I’m pretty keen to play my rugby here in front of my family and friends. 

The former Saint Thomas High School student his plans for this year is to blend well with the squad and team management. 

“I probably just want to get chemistry with the boys.

“To be honest, preparation has been hard and but I’ve been good. Going through the hard times with my brothers makes it way easier to get past training,” he said.

He thanked his teammates for making him feel at home at the Drua base. 

“I know it’s hard for a new player coming into a new environment but the boys have been good to me. It’s like I’ve been part of the team for a long time,” Smith said.

In most of his rugby career, Smith played rugby in Australia where he played 20 matches for Rebels since the 2022/23 Super Rugby season. 

He said playing rugby in Australia is quite different from the Drua. 

“We’re all born with that type of play, so it’s easy to adapt. Looking forward to it,” Smith said. 

He added his initial focus is the Drua and the Flying Fijians will be next. 

“Just taking it one step at a time. Trying to get my first cap for Drua and then we’ll see about the Flying Fijians later,” Smith said.