Fiji-born former Wallaby Isi Naisarani returns to Super Rugby with Drua

Former Wallabies backrower Isi Naisarani has secured a Super Rugby Pacific homecoming after inking a deal with the Fijian Drua for the 2027 season. Fiji-born Naisarani previously played for three Australian Super Rugby clubs before heading overseas to Japan.

Naisarani started out at Super Rugby level almost 10 years ago with the Western Force, becoming the first player to win the coveted Nathan Sharpe Medal (Force Player of the Year) as a rookie, having featured in 15 matches that season.

The No. 8 made even more history on the back of that breakout campaign, having been awarded the RUPA Medal of Excellence and the Australian Super Rugby Player of the Year honours – the first rookie to collect those accolades as well.

Naisarani enjoyed a one-season stint with the ACT Brumbies before heading to the Melbourne Rebels in 2019, which ultimately led to higher honours with Australia. The loose forward debut in Wallaby gold against the Springboks in July, taking the field in Johannesburg.

Coach Michael Cheika selected Naisarani in the Wallabies squad for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, before linking up with the Shizuoka Blue Revs in Japan and then sealing a return to the Force. Naisarani is now set for another Super Rugby opportunity, signing with the Drua.

“Isi joining the Drua Vuvale is a very exciting signing for us. A dynamic powerful & skilful player he will add a huge amount to our game in attack & in defence,” coach Brad Mooar said.

“Watching his games in the Shute Shield this year and speaking with Isi it is clear that he is in a great space and is loving his rugby and life. Isi is happy, fulfilled and hungry to keep getting better and to give to the Drua – that is a powerful combination! Isi will be outstanding for us. Welcome to the Drua Vuvale Isi & family, we are thrilled to have you on board.”

Naisarani is coming off a standout Shute Shield campaign in New South Wales, Australia, having been named in the Code Sports Team of the Year. The former Wallaby was also second in the race for Player of the Year honours, finishing as the runner-up for the Ken Catchpole Medal.

The Drua have made some significant signings in recent weeks, with Sam Wye unveiled as a new recruit on August 11. Leone Nakarawa and Inoke Ravuiwasa have also signed on, while the duo of Maika Tuitubou and Joji Naosva have signed extensions.

“I’m really excited to be joining the Fijian Drua team for the 2027 season,” Naisarani added.

“My family and I can’t wait to meet and connect with all the fans. Let’s make 2027 a good one.”