16 January, 2026, 10:38 am Central - 31°C Clouds

We are hoping to put smiles on the faces of Fijian rugby fans – Derenalagi
Drua captain says it was a bumpy road to adapt to professional level rugby

We are hoping to put smiles on the faces of Fijian rugby fans – Derenalagi

Drua captain says it was a bumpy road to adapt to professional level rugby

By Dhanjay Deo
30/04/2022
Swire Shipping Fijian Drua captain Meli Derenalagi.

Swire Shipping Fijian Drua captain, Meli Derenalagi is calling on fans to come out in numbers at the ANZ Stadium and support them for their historic Super Rugby Pacific match against the Highlanders.

While speaking on a special fijivillage Straight Talk With Vijay Narayan, the Olympic gold medalist says they will need the home crowd support.

Derenalagi grew up in Nawaka Village and attended Nawaka District School. The 24-year-old then studied at Natabua High School before moving to Queen Victoria School.

He says just like any other Fijian child, he also had a dream of wearing the white jersey and was motivated by his father Ratu Vuniani Derenalagi who played for Fiji in rugby sevens.

Derenalagi says they are always motivated by former players as it is a dream come true to be playing in the Super Rugby competition.

The Fijian Drua face the Highlanders at 4.35pm today at the ANZ Stadium.

Meanwhile, Suva will face Namosi at 1.40pm in the Marama Championship in the curtain raiser match.


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