Entering their fifth year in the competition, the Fijian Drua are fully focused on turning their potential into victories and Head Coach Glen Jackson says there is a fresh energy in camp, with the players ready to meet the challenge head-on.
“Everyone in the squad, from the new players to the ones who’ve been here for a few seasons know what is at stake,” Jackson said. “We will try and make this season one that will bring in the results that we all want.”
While the 2025 season was a tough journey for the club, Jackson is using those challenges as a foundation for a successful 2026.
“It was not what we anticipated and we have taken on the lessons that we learnt from 2025 and we will look to build on making a better headway in the competition,” he explained.
Confidence is high within the squad, especially with the arrival of seasoned veterans who add to the leadership and experience already in the squad.
These include Temo Mayanavanua who returns home after a steady rise with Northampton Saints, Manasa Mataele who was with Super Rugby sides Crusaders and Western Force, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa who was also part of the Australian Super Rugby system and Joji Nasova who was named in the 2025 World Sevens Series Dream Team.
Jackson believes this balance of young talent and veteran “know-how” is the key to a breakout year.
“We have some new players who bring with them a lot of experience and these will add to the team make up for the season, so this year should be a good year for us,” he added.
The Drua will test their progress against a Skipper Select XV this February in Lautoka, providing a final tune-up before they host Moana Pasifika at the same venue for a massive opening round clash.
