Matavesi To Make RWC Debut Against The Wallabies
This Saturday Sam Matavesi will make his world cup debut for Fiji against Australia in Japan.
Last season the Cornish Fijian was balancing a busy day job based at RNAS CULDROSE, while playing for Cornish Pirates in the English Championship. Throughout, Matavesi was simply outstanding and was deservedly scouted for Top 14 duties by the French powerhouse, Toulouse. Since then he’s gone from strength to strength, and become the first choice hooker in a world class Fijian front row. In addition to playing International and Top 14 rugby, Sam represented the Navy throughout the 2019 Inter Services campaign.
It has been a proud year for the Matavesi family with Sam being joined by his brother Josh in the Fijian world cup squad. “Joining the Navy is the best thing I ever did.” Said Matavesi. “It’s taught me so many of the values required to be a world class athlete, and I’ve been able to translate that on the rugby field. The support me and family have received has been incredible, and I’m truly grateful. I’ve been fortunate to play in some massive games surrounded by the best players in the world, but there’s something special about pulling on a Navy jersey. Everything about Navy rugby is class and without it I wouldn’t be at the World Cup.”
“Sam is a special player and has worked so hard for this opportunity. When in the Navy squad his enthusiasm and professionalism is infectious. He’s a popular bloke and will always take time out of his day to help develop the less experienced players. I have no doubt he’ll do a great job in Japan.” Said Royal Navy Head Coach Dave Pascoe.
Matavesi will join 11 other Royal Navy players who are currently in Japan representing the UK Armed Forces in the International Defence Rugby Cup. UKAF comfortably beat France in the semi-finals and will now play Fiji in the final.
Australia v Fiji will KO at 0545 on Saturday on Saturday 21st September, and the game will be broadcast live on ITV.
Images: Army Navy Match © Neil Kennedy