Super Rugby: Fijian Drua chase hat-trick of home wins against Reds

The Fijian Drua are looking to keep their home momentum going in Super Rugby Pacific, aiming for a straight third win when they host the Queensland Reds at Churchill Park, Lautoka, on Saturday.

After a historic 42-27 victory over the ACT Brumbies in Ba last week, the Drua hope to build on their strong performances on home soil against the fifth-placed Reds, who come in on the back of three consecutive wins.

The Drua are currently sitting ninth on the ladder and a win is crucial to move closer to the top eight.

Head coach Glen Jackson backs his six-two split against the Queensland Reds, keeping the focus tight.

“I’ve been reiterating to the players that it’s good to win but we’re still at the same position on the table, so that’s the state of the game at the moment, and how important it is to win every game,” he told journalists.

The team will field a strong loose trio of Etonia Waqa, Kitione Salawa, and Elia Canakaitava, while Mesake Vocevoce partners last week’s player of the match, Isoa Nasilasila, in the locks.

Ilaisa Droasese of the Fijian Drua. Photo/Facebook

Waqa is one to watch, having scored in four of the last six home matches the Drua have played.

Hooker Sairusi Ravudi, who made an impact off the bench last week by scoring a try, retains his place in the matchday squad. Out wide, Ponipate Loganimase and Joji Nasova start, with co-captain Frank Lomani and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula running the backline.

The Drua have won three of their last five meetings with the Reds, including a 36-33 victory in their last clash in Suva.

But Jackson warns the Reds will be ready for a battle, firing on all cylinders and looking to exploit the Drua’s weaknesses.

Conditions are expected to play a part, with heavy thunderstorms and temperatures reaching 30°C forecast for match day. But it is an environment rugby pundits say the Drua know how to handle on their home turf.

With a mix of emerging talent and experience campaigners, the Drua will be looking to turn home advantage into a decisive win.

For more information on the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Championship click here.

Teams:

Fijian Drua: Haireiti Hetet, Zuriel Togiatama, Mesake Doge, Mesake Vocevoce, Isoa Nasilasila, Etonia Waqa, Kitione Salawa, Elia Canakaivata, Frank Lomani, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Ponipate Loganimasi, Isikeli Rabitu, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Joji Nasova, Ilaisa Droasese Bench: Sairusi Ravudi, Peni Ravai, Samuela Tawake, Vilive Miramira, Isoa Tuwai, Motikia Murray, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa

Queensland Reds: Aidan Ross, Josh Nasser, Nick Bloomfield, Seru Uru, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Joe Brial, John Bryant, Harry Wilson, Kalani Thomas, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Tim Ryan, Hunter Paisami, Isaac Henry, Filipo Daugunu, Jock Campbell Bench: Richie Asiata, George Blake, Jeff Toomaga-Allen, Hamish Muller, Vaiuta Latu, Louis Werchon, Ben Volavola, Treyvon Pritchard