Vakatawa hints possible Drua return

Former French international and Naitasiri second five eight Virimi Vakatawa has hinted that he would possibly return to play in Fiji. 

The Naluwai native is likely to be signed by the Fijian Drua where he has been spending his off-season while on an extended break in the country. 

The 33-year-old played for Naitasiri on Saturday’s double-header clash against Suva where they won 27-25, to retain the INKK Farebrother trophy at Naluwai grounds. 

It was a full circle moment of the Naluwai native to play alongside his fellow kinsmen at the same ground where he was identified and scouted at 17-years-old. 

When asked of his next plans, Vakatawa said: “After pre-season I’ll return overseas and if all plans are right I will come back next year. 

“I’d like to thank the (outgoing) Drua CEO Mark Evans for this opportunity and for the team doctor for giving me the green light to play. 

The former France centre is now eligible to play for the Flying Fijians after he last played for the Les Bleus in July 2022 before a heart condition forced him to retire at 30. 

However, he was cleared medically and signed for the Bristol Bears during the 2023/24 season. He played in 18 matches for Bears and two Test matches for the Barbarians. 

“I can’t say that I’m willing (to play for the Flying Fijians) because I just started my off-season here. There is a tough competition in the Flying Fijians with the players already available,” he told SUNsports. 

“I’ll keep on training hard and only time will tell – if I’m selected then I’ll be ready but for now my focus is on off-season training and the Drua.” 

Vakatawa last played for Naitasiri more than a decade ago where they lost to Suva during the then Digicel Cup competition at the National Stadium. 

“I thank God for His provisions on my life. 

“This is only my second time playing for Naitasiri and it was an icing on the cake to win the Farebrother trophy here in Naluwai where my rugby talent was birthed and recognised,” Vakatawa said. 

“Suva was a tough team to beat. 

“This was also my first Farebrother match; most of my teammates have played their fifth Farebrother match but are younger than me. I thank the management for giving me the opportunity.” 

Vakatawa added that he will return to Nadi to continue pre-season training with the Drua today. 

He has played 32 matches for France since his debut in February 2016.