He was the biggest bolter in Eddie Jones’ 2023 World Cup squad, but Issak Fines-Leleiwasa could be on track to play in a second campaign after signing with the Fijian Drua ahead of the 2026 Super Rugby season.
The 29-year-old halfback, who appeared off the bench three times for the Wallabies during their 2023 World Cup campaign, will become eligible for Fiji in October 2026 – almost one year ahead of the 2027 tournament on Australian shores.
He will join the Drua following this year’s inaugural Super Rugby AU competition, which will take place in September.
“I just want to thank everyone over the past four seasons, I’ve enjoyed every opportunity I got to represent the Force with a great bunch of men and some of the best and most loyal fans being the Sea of Blue,” Leleiwasa said in a statement.
“I’ve made life-long connections both on and off the field and that’s something I’m truly grateful for. #177 signing out.”
Issak Fines-Leleiwasa featured for the Wallabies three times in France during the 2023 World Cup campaign. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
His defection comes after being limited to just nine matches, including one start, for the Force in 2025.
“Finesy has been a critical team member at the Force. He has earned a lot of respect and admiration due to his professional approach both on and off the field,” Force coach Simon Cron said.
“We thank Finesy for being such a great team member and wish him, his partner Ren, and young daughter Isla, all the best for the next chapter of their lives.”
After Fines-Leleiwasa returned to the Force in 2022, the dangerous halfback was joined at the Super Rugby franchise by Nic White in 2024. Emerging talent Henry Robertson was given several opportunities in the second half of the 2025 season, too.
The decision to hand Robertson opportunities came despite Jones picking Fines-Leleiwasa ahead of Jake Gordon at the 2023 World Cup.
Drua coach Glen Jackson said he was thrilled to welcome the two-Test Wallaby onto his books.
“Issak brings a wealth of experience in Super Rugby Pacific and Test Rugby, playing for Australia. He will also be eligible to play for Fiji soon,” Jackson said in a statement.
“Issak is a good leader and an outstanding rugby player. He will help to lead our team with Frank [Lomani], Simi [Kuruvoli] and as well as young Philip [Baselala]. It’s a position that is important in any team and we are lucky to have the depth with international quality players.”
The Roarhttps://https://ift.tt/27UW1J8 switch on the cards as World Cup Wallaby leaves Force to join Fiji Drua
Post a Comment