Volavola’s record justifies negotiations
One of the reasons why Ben Volavola was initially dropped from the Flying Fijians squad for the Europe tour was his lack of game time with his club Racing 92.
It was done to put pressure on him to perform for his club and get recognition with game time. This was important in terms of developing his decision making since he is on playmaker’s role.
At Racing, Volavola, was first signed on as a back-up for South Africa’s Pat Lambe and now Scotland’s Finn Russell.
The 33-year-old got his first Super Rugby break with the NSW Waratahs under coach, Michael Cheika from 2013 to 2015. Volavola shared the No.10 responsibilities with Bernard Foley before he declared his allegiance to play for the Flying Fijians.
In 2016, he was signed up by Crusaders after the departure of their first five-eighths of Dan Carter, Collin Slade and Tom Taylor to Europe.
The following year, Volavola moved to Melbourne to join Rebels and again shared the No.10 responsibilities with now Hurricanes playmaker Jackson Garden-Bachop.
However, due to Teti Tela’s passport saga, the veteran first five eight was given a second chance after he was recalled to the squad on a standby against Scotland. And he was back playing for the Flying Fijians in the second half of the Ireland Test and he did not disappoint.
Volavola, stood the test as he controlled play well when they had 13men. They were able to stay within striking distance (21-10) of the world ranked number one side.
Still a contender
Despite losing 35-17, the 43 Test veteran has showed that he is still a top contender for that No.10 jumper at next year’s Rugby World Cup.
Volavola, has a wealth of experience from playing in two World Cups (2015 and 2019), 43 Tests, 25 Super Rugby and the 68 Top 14 matches.
Apart from that, he also played in our historic wins over France and the Maori All Blacks.
No one in the current Flying Fijians or the Fijian Drua squad could match that record.
We need someone of that caliber for our No.10 spot.
The only setback for Volavola, is his lack of game time with Racing in the Top 14 comp.
If that is case, what is the possibility of him being drafted into the Fijian Drua squad for next year’s Super Rugby Pacific competition.
It’s all matter of negotiations between Fiji Rugby Union, Fijian Drua management along with Volavola’s agent where they could settle for an amicable solution.
Given our good relations, with French Rugby, Volavola could either be released by Racing or being loaned to the Drua.
If the Drua could recruit a retiree like Bayden Kerr to play for them in last season’s Super Rugby season, then why can’t we do it for Volavola.
He could share the No.10 role with Tela.
Playing in a demanding and fast paced environment like Super Rugby, is an ideal place for Volavola to regain his mojo and deliver what we are looking for at next year’s World Cup.