Newly signed Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and former Suva Grammar School half back, Philip Baselala says he counts himself lucky and vows to give his best for the team this season.
After signing a full-time Super Rugby contract with the Drua earlier this week, the 18-year-old says signing the contract is a dream come true for him and he can not wait to wear the Drua jersey and prove his worth to the coaches on the field.
Baselala says he was always passionate about rugby growing up, and he had to defy all odds to achieve his goal of becoming a professional rugby player.
He adds growing up, he always dreamt of playing professional rugby and rubbing shoulders with some of the top world-class rugby players.
Baselala says he is taking a one-year break from his education to pursue rugby.
He also says it is not going to be easy as there will be competitions in the half-back position between him and Flying Fijians players Frank Lomani and Peni Matawalu.
Baselala says despite the rivalry between them fighting for a spot in the match day 23, Matawalu and Lomani have been very helpful in developing his skills in the half-back position.
He says he is excited ahead of this weekend’s pre season match against Melbourne Rebels and he can not wait to play in front of his family.
The Fijian Drua will take on the Melbourne Rebels at 3pm Saturday at Prince Charles Park, Nadi.
Tickets can be purchased at the gates with $12 for pavilion and $6 for embankment.
