Ratuva’s a rising star
He could be the next star of Fijian 7s rugby. At the age of 23 lanky Wame Ratuva has been turning heads with his breathtaking performance and try scoring skills. On Friday, Ratuva scored a hat-trick as Ratu Filise upset Wardens in their pool opener of the Super Sevens Series at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka.
He instantly became a marked man as a dangerous tackle from national 7s forward Sevuloni Mocenacagi did not deter him one bit. Instead, Mocenacagi was shown the red card.
In the Cup quarterfinals yesterday Ratuva scored a spectacular opening try for Ratu Filise before setting up their second as they beat Army 14-0.
Army had national 7s reps of Meli Derenalagi, Alasio Naduva and Jone Manu. Ratuva, who is now dubbed a try scoring machine hopes to impress the national 7s coach Gareth Baber and be given a chance to join the national 7s training squad.
“I was 19, when I started playing for Ratu Filise, and has been there ever since,” Ratuva told SUNsports.
“The Super Sevens Series gives local players like me a chance to showcase my talent and give my best.”
Ratuva, who hails from Namatakula Village, said he wants to don the national rugby jumper.
“My personal goal is to be a national 7s rep. “There are many Fiji reps from my village but I want to be the first from my family. “Playing against these national players is a good test for me. I can say that it is not that tough to be in the national squad.” Namatakula Village is the home of rugby greats like Noa Nadruku, Lote Tuqiri, Nemani Nadolo, Tevita Kuridrani, Isimeli Batibasaga and the list goes on.
Ratuva is a fan of former England 7s prop James Rodwell.
“I’m always inspired by him. I look up to Rodwell. He is a humble player and I like the way he plays,” the rising star said.