Samusamuvodre ready to lead the Fijian Warriors in WRPC

22-year-old Tuidraki Samusamuvodre will captain the Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors during the World Rugby Pacific Challenge (WRPC) which begins this Friday at ANZ Stadium in Suva.

Samusamuvodre has been rising through the ranks of Fiji Rugby over the last couple of seasons representing the Fijian Latui, Fiji Airways Fijian Drua and the Fijian Warriors in 2019.

He said “I’m very grateful for this opportunity.

It’s first time for me to captain a national team and I’m thankful to my coaches and team management who have selected me for this role.”

He said the team has been combining well and working hard in the lead up to the Pacific Challenge.

“The players have been cooperating well at training especially during the physical sessions.

“We are ready for our first game against Samoa A” he said.

The Nadi native was a try scoring sensation at the 2019 World Rugby Pacific Challenge and will play a vital utility role for the Fijian Warriors defending their fifth straight title.

“It’s going to be an important task for the players as we need to defend the title this year.”

“It is not an easy competition as all teams will come firing against us but we are up for the challenge” he said.

Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors Coach Kele Leawere said Samusamuvodre brings a lot of experience and is a great leader in the team.

“He has been with us for quite a long time and knows our system.

“I’m sure with the help of other senior players he will be able to guide the team on the field” said Leawere.

The Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors open their World Rugby Pacific Challenge campaign against Samoa A at 5pm on Friday. In a match earlier at 2.30pm Tonga A will face Junior Japan. All matches will be played at ANZ Stadium in Suva.

Tickets available at the gate, $10 for grandstand, $5 adult embankment, $2 child embankment with free entry for students in uniform.