12 in Drua plan

THE Swire Shipping Fijian Drua yesterday announced it first-ever development squad which is made up of emerging players from the Dean’s and Skipper Cup competitions.

While unveiling their 38-member squad for the 2023 season at their Home Base in Nadi yesterday, the franchise also announced the players in the 12-member squad.

The development players include Livai Natave, Jone Naqiri, Sailosi Vakalokalo, Fred Ralulu, Joji Kunavula, Motikai Murray, Naibuka Matadigo, Philip Baselala, Isikeli Rabitu, Aisea Tuisese,

Jack Volavola and Taniela Rakuro.

Fijian Drua head coach Mick Byrne said the development players would train alongside the main squad, however, they would not be playing as they are still in the development phase.

“We are not shying away from the fact that if we do have an injury crisis, we would upgrade these players and move them into our playing squad,” Byrne said.

“These are young players coming in and experiencing professional rugby for the first time and some of them are responding really well.”

Byrne said the development squad would be presenting themselves to the Fijian Drua over next season as well.

“When we would re-visit our squad selection for 2024, they would be getting an opportunity to present themselves to us and probably earn a call-up to fulltime professional contracts.

“These players are on development contract, so we will reimburse for their time as part of the investment that the Fijian Drua is putting into local players, so

We are not shying away from the fact that if we do have an injury crisis, we would upgrade these players and move them into our playing squad

– Mick Byrne

there is definitely a remuneration package for them.”