The 63-year-old represented the Wallabies in the 1987 and 1991 Rugby World Cup tournaments re­spectively. He made his debut in 1986 and retired in 1991 with a total of 26 caps.

“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.

The Drua will be hosted by the Chiefs in their pres-season match on January 30 before they face the Skipper Cup Select XV team on February 6 at Churchill Park, Lautoka. 

“It’s exciting for me. Coming back home was always something I wanted and it’s literally like playing for Fiji,” Mataele said.

Fines-Leleiwasa said he had followed the Drua closely in recent years. He described the fan base and culture as unique.

Coach Glenn Jackson says intensive pre‑season preparation and experienced recruits have strengthened the squad ahead of their Super Rugby Pacific 2026 campaign.