Goneva: Time to pass on the baton
Veteran utility back Vereniki Goneva is the third Fiji Airways Flying Fijian player to retire from international rugby after playing at the Rugby World Cup 2019.
Earlier on Josh Matavesi and loose head prop Campese Ma’afu had made their announcements.
The Nagado, Nadi native took to social media yesterday to confirm his retirement.
In his Facebook post, the 36-year-old said he has called it a day playing for his beloved country Fiji.
He added that after a few weeks reflecting and spending some quality time with his family, he has decided to sign off from international duties.
The former national rugby 7s captain said he will cherish every moment and memories he had while wearing the white jumper.
“I believe that now it is the best time to pass on the baton to another talented player that is well-fitted and make their dream shine through,” he stated.
Goneva played at the 2011, 2015 and 2019 World Cups.
In his World Cup debut in 2011, he scored four tries against Namibia and earned the Man of the Match award.
Also, that year after a successful outing at the Pacific Nations Cup, Goneva was selected to play against the All Blacks in Dunedin. He came off the bench and scored an outstanding individual try.
Goneva has played for US Colomiers, Tarbes, Leicester Tigers, Newcastle Falcons and Harlequins.
In May 2014, Goneva was crowned 2014 Players’ Player of the Year at the Rugby Players’ Association awards dinner in Battersea.