Vikena keen on Flying Fijians selection

Highlanders hooker Soane Vikena has put his hand up to represent the Flying Fijians to next year’s Rugby World Cup (RWC) in Australia.

The former Blues and now Highlanders forward revealed this to SUNsports after their Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Fijian Drua at Govind Park, Ba, last Saturday night.

“I’ve already spoken to the Fijian coaches, but nothing is confirmed yet,” Vikena said.

“I want to play for Fiji, so I’ll leave it out there.”

A World Cup appearance for Fiji has been the motivating factor for Vikena.

“I’m 25-years-old and I’m still young. I think it’s time for me to play for my nation but first I just want to finish the season with the Highlanders.”

Vikena’s interest has been deemed timely as the current Flying Fijian hookers are having problems with their lineout throws.

He is expected to provide competition to Japan-based Tevita Ikanivere along with those in the Fijian Drua squad of Zuriel Togiatama, Kavaia

Tagivetaua, Sairusi Ravudi and veteran Mesulame Dolokoto. Vikena thanked the Highlanders and Fijian Drua fans for coming out in big numbers to watch the game.

“I’m thankful to my family that made the trip over here, and it was awesome to come back here,” he said.

“Love the fanbase here and looking forward to coming back here,” he aid.

Vikena added that he would focus on their next game against the NSW Waratahs in Dunedin.

“We’re still in the fight for the top six spot, it’s not the end of our season yet. We have a lot of things to work on which is good.”

He previously played for the Blues from 2021 to 2024 Super Rugby seasons.

Vikena hails from Nasilai Village in Rewa with maternal links to Lovoni, Ovalau.

Costly errors

Meanwhile, Highlanders winger Jona Nareki has envision a future where he will play alongside his countrymen.

He made the comment after their 24–14 loss to the Fijian Drua team at Govind Park in Ba last Saturday.

“If I do leave New Zealand, I’d love to play for the Flying Fijians,” he former All Blacks 7s winger said.

“You know these great guys, old dogs like Semi Radraradra and them so I’d love to rub shoulders with them one day.”

Nareki was disappointed with the result but remained optimistic for their next match.

“While I’m still in New Zealand, I think I’ll just concentrate on the Highlanders.

“We’re just trying to get a win next week as it’s our last home game.”

Nareki added that it was a proud moment for him to play in front of family and friends.

“It’s always emotional, especially in front of my aunties and uncles,” he said.

Nareki said the errors made in the match were costly, which led to their loss.

“We thought we were going to do our job, but the crowd played a massive role in the Drua’s win. The pressure that are brought to us kind of shocked us, we made to many errors, and they pounced on them to take the win,” he added.