Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika aim to finish Super Rugby Pacific season strongly
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika face their final matches of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season this weekend.
- Both teams suffered narrow losses in the previous round.
- Fijian Drua's Zuriel Togiatama will play his 50th game, and coach Glen Jackson is concluding his tenure.
The Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika are set to conclude their 2026 Super Rugby Pacific campaigns this weekend, currently sitting 10th and 11th respectively in the standings. Both teams are looking to finish the season on a positive note after experiencing close defeats in the previous round.
The Fijian Drua's final match will see hooker Zuriel Togiatama achieve a significant milestone, playing his 50th game for the club. Togiatama, who scored his first try in his 49th match against the Western Force, has Niuean heritage and maternal links to Fiji. He will become only the sixth player to reach this cap milestone for the Drua.
Additionally, head coach Glen Jackson will be concluding his tenure with the side, having been with them since 2022. Jackson has selected a balanced squad featuring both young talent and experienced players. Notable inclusions are Isikeli Rabitu at inside center, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula at fullback, and Tuidraki Samusamuvodre in midfield. Veteran prop Peni Ravai returns, and Isoa Nasilasila will play his 64th game alongside captain Temo Mayanavanua. Kitione Salawa, at number 7, will play his 51st game, having shown remarkable consistency and scoring back-to-back tries in 2026 after a single try in his previous 28 games.
Statistics indicate the Fijian Drua's forward pack has been the most impactful attacking force, leading the competition with an average of 11.5 tackle breaks per game. Coach Jackson recognizes the importance of the forward battle in setting the game's pace. He has opted for a 6-2 bench split, with Sairusi Ravudi, Peni Ravai, and Mesake Doge providing front-row cover, and Joseva Tamani, Etonia Waqa, and Isoa Tuwai bolstering the forward reserves. Simione Kuruvoli and Virimi Vakatawa are the designated backline replacements.
The Queensland Reds, coached by Les Kiss, have also named a strong team, retaining much of the squad that narrowly defeated Moana Pasifika last week. This match is crucial for the Reds as they aim to secure a top-six spot. Key forwards include Seru Uru, captain Fraser McReight, and Harry Wilson, with Joe Brial moving to the bench. Fijian heritage players Ben Volavola and Filipo Daugunu are available as backline cover.
Originally published by RNZ Pacific in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.