Leone Nakarawa ends decade in France to join Fijian Drua at 38

Leone Nakarawa, the 68-cap Fiji international and 2016 Olympic Sevens gold medallist, has signed with the Fijian Drua for the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific campaign, marking his first appearance in the southern-hemisphere competition at the age of 38.

The move brings the curtain down on a decade in France for the lock, who departed Castres this summer after a three-year stay. Nakarawa first crossed the Channel in 2016 when he joined Racing 92 from Glasgow Warriors, before returning briefly to Scotstoun in early 2020. He then signed for Toulon in 2021, spending a season on the Côte d’Azur before moving to Castres in 2022.

“Looking forward to be playing for the Drua and playing professional and staying Fiji,” Nakarawa said after completing the signing.

Fijian Drua General Manager Rugby Baden Stephenson welcomed the addition, highlighting what the veteran brings beyond his playing ability. “Leone is a quality person, quality leader and big game player,” Stephenson said. “We are excited to bring someone of his vast experience into the forward pack. It will be very special seeing Leone represent his family, village and country in the Super Rugby competition.”

Nakarawa’s arrival gives the Drua a seasoned presence in the forward pack as the franchise continues to build its identity in Super Rugby Pacific. Having spent the bulk of his career at the elite level of European club rugby, the lock now returns to represent his country in a competition his homeland only entered in 2022.