Waqa Nalaga, a 21-year-old centre, has had his contract with the Fijian Drua terminated.
“Waqa Nalaga has left the Fijian Drua in accordance with due process,” the club announced in a terse statement. The club will not be commenting on this issue going forward.
Questions remain unanswered since it is unclear if Nalaga left on his own volition or because he was fired. Given that Nalaga and the other Drua centres were prominently featured in advertising materials for the Drua’s 2017 Super Rugby Pacific season, which includes seven home games, it is remarkable that the announcement was made so abruptly.
On November 2, during the Flying Fijians’ crushing loss to Scotland (57–17), Nalaga received his first international cap after playing 17 minutes off the bench. He was seen as a vital part of Fiji’s next generation, standing 177 cm and weighing 91 kg and having the ability to play both on the wing and at centre.
Nalaga made five appearances for the Drua during the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season, starting three games and tallying two tries. His development had been highlighted by his versatility and promise.
Former Flying Fijian and ASM Clermont winger Napolioni Nalaga’s younger brother is Waqa Nalaga. During his tenure with Clermont from 2006 to 2015, the elder Nalaga scored 105 tries in 170 games, leaving a lasting impression on the Top 14.
Although Nalaga’s reasons for leaving the Fijian Drua are yet unknown, his departure signals the end of what was supposed to be a fruitful chapter in his career.
