Meli Derenalagi has been named captain of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua in the 2024 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
Derenalagi, a 25-year-old backrower, is no stranger to the role having been the captain last season, bringing leadership and experience to the side.
Head Coach Mick Byrne expressed confidence in Derenalagi’s ability to lead, supported by Mesake Doge (pictured left), Tevita Ikanivere, and Iosefo Masi.
“These group of men have been an immense support to me and my coaching staff,” Byrne said.
Derenalagi was part of the 2020 Olympic Gold Medal winning Fiji 7s team and made five appearances for the Flying Fijians during the 2023 Rugby World Cup with 19 appearances for the Drua since his debut in 2022. The 25-year-old has recorded two tries in the Super Rugby Pacific competition and was the recipient of the 2023 Drua Try of the Year award after his season-defining try against the Hurricanes last year.
Derenalagi begins his duties in a trial match against the ACT Brumbies this Saturday in Canberra.
