MEMBERS of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua development squad will be allowed to play in the Skipper Cup competition for their affiliated provincial rugby unions.
While unveiling their squad for the 2023 season at their Home Base in Nadi on Monday, 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.
“We want them playing in the Skipper Cup when the competition starts, however, we also want them in here, training with us so that we are able to keep developing them here,” Fijian Drua head coach Mick Byrne said.
He said they would hold discussions with Skipper Cup coaches and managers to find ways where the players could be utilised to their maximum potential.
“We will work through the process where they would be able to move between two programs but the coaches and management are aware that their players are in here.”
Byrne said the development players would train alongside the main squad, however, they would not be playing as they are still in the development phases.
“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 full time 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 there is definitely a remuneration package for them.”
