Cirikidaveta’s Goal for 2023
More Fijian Drua products coming out in December- January
Today, is the naming of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua squad for the 2023 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.
One of the players who is destined to make the squad told SUNsports on Saturday night at Port Denarau in Nadi, of his immediate goal. Backrow Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta said he wants to be part of the Vern Cotter coached- Flying Fijians side to next year’s Rugby World Cup in France.
The 24-year-old Tasman Mako No.8 was named in the Flying Fijians squad for the Pacific Nations Cup in July but withdrew due to injury.
The New Zealand based- rep has been working hard to stay on form as he wants to represent his country.
“My biggest goal at the moment is to try and make the World Cup team because I love to represent my country,” said Cirikidaveta,
who is dubbed Big T.
“Definitely, it is pretty difficult to make the squad, but I’ll push hard and put my best foot forward.” Cirikidaveta who is now based in Nadi said the change of weather has been a huge challenge.
“It’s been pretty tough coming over from New Zealand and to cope with the heat in Nadi.
“However, I’m getting used to that now. I’ve really enjoyed it over here working hard with the boys getting ready for what is coming up.”
Derenalagi’s recovery
Lanky flanker Meli Derenalagi is keeping his fingers crossed as he wants his fitness level to meet the standard requirements before the Super Rugby competition kicks off in March.
“Just taking it slowly but I’ll surely recover in time. It is quite a journey for me coming back to the field after having a surgery. Things are starting to improve now.
“I’ve been training and doing some hard work in trying to improve my fitness and be part of the Drua squad again,” he said.
“My focus now is to take it one step at a time.”
Derenalagi celebrated his 24th birthday with the staff of Cantina
Mexican restaurant.
“It’s a special one for me to be here with mates and fans,” he said.
Drua merchandise
Meanwhile, four members of the Fijian Drua squad were present during the team’s merchandise launch at the Drua Store in Port Denarau on Saturday.
Jacks of Fiji senior executive Nikul Khatri said it was a very exciting day for them as it sort of kicks off the merchandise and the Drua season.
“We’re starting to get all the fans excited and we have more products coming up in December and January,” he said.
“It did very well last year. We’re happy with it. It just shows that the fans are passionate about the Drua and supporting the Drua and their talents.
“It went well last year. I think it’ll go even better this year.”
He added that last year was a bit of a rush, as everything happened so quickly.
“There were some challenges as well, last season. But I think it can be bigger and better this season.”