Ex-7s Captain On Comeback Trail

Former Fiji Airways Fijian sevens captain Paula Dranisi­nukula is keen on having his name on national coach Ben Gollings’ list for the remaining of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

Army Corporal Dranisinukula is back home after a year’s mis­sion with the United Nations Disengagement Force (UNDOF) serving in the Golan Heights.

He was part of the 65-member contingent of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces that arrived at Nadi Airport on Friday night.

“I want to be part of the nation­al sevens team again, I have my sights on the Commonwealth Games and the Rugby World Cup Sevens later this year,” Dranisinukula said.

Closely following the shortened code Dranisinukula believes Fiji can repeat their performance in the Vancouver 7s following the impressive game shown by the debutants at the Singapore 7s last weekend.

“I hope to be part of the Fiji 7s team again but at the moment I need to readjust myself and see what next step to be taken,” he said.

The 32-year-old said it was good to be back home and spend time with his family.

“I am happy to be at home again and I am expecting to meet my family. It is a joy to be home at this special time, Easter is a significant time and a good time to be home.

“We thank God for the task that has been accomplished, his pro­tection throughout our tour of duty and our return home.

“It was a privilege to be part of the peacekeeping mission to Golan. We enjoyed the com­pany of others and also enjoyed carrying out the tasks we were obliged to do.

“We know that prayers of our loved ones, friends and families have been and always with us,” he added.

Originally from Navuniivi, in the province of Ra, the former Ratu Kadavulevu School stu­dent first represented Fiji in sevens in 2017. He captained Fiji to the 2019 Hong Kong 7s meet where they beat France 21-7 in the final.

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