Flying Fijians great lands new coaching role with Drua

Flying Fijians legend Nemani Nadolo-Kuridrani has taken up a new position ahead of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, tipped to “have a significant impact” on the Fijian Drua after joining the club as a development coach.

Nadolo-Kuridrani played 30 Test matches for the Flying Fijians during one of the most decorated, accomplished and memorable individual careers in the national team’s history, with the utility back scoring more than 240 points.

After starting out as an inside centre at international level before shifting to the wing, Nadolo-Kuridrani quickly became one of the most recognisable players in Fiji’s squad, ultimately finishing up as the team’s second-highest try-scorer and fourth all-time point scorer.

The 37-year-old’s career at club level included some famous stints around the world, including 39 appearances for the Crusaders. Nadolo-Kuridrani also represented the NSW Waratahs, Leicester Tigers, Montpellier, NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu, and two games for the Barbarians.

Nadolo-Kuridrani’s last professional rugby match was for Leicester, defeating Northampton Saints 27-14 in the England Premiership semi-finals. After moving into commentary, Nadolo-Kuridrani has featured regularly on the broadcast of Fijian Drua home matches.

“We are thrilled to bring Nemani into the Drua coaching team for 2026. He will fulfil a very important role as our development coach,” Baden Stephenson, Fijian Drua General Manager Rugby, said in a statement.

“We have great confidence that Nemani will have a significant impact and can help progress our very talented development players into Drua Super Rugby Pacific players and hopefully next generation Flying Fijians.

“Nemani is very passionate to give back and share his vast knowledge and experience.”

Nadolo-Kuridrani played a handful of matches for Australia U20s in 2008, after graduating from prestigious high school St Joseph’s Nudgee College. The powerful ball-carrier’s professional career started in France, before joining Exeter Chiefs and then moving to Japan.

After signing with the Crusaders, Nadolo-Kuridrani enjoyed an iconic period at the club which spanned more than 35 matches and included 27 tries. Nadolo-Kuridrani would later go to the 2015 Men’s Rugby World Cup with the Flying Fijians.

“It’s a tremendous honour to join the Drua Vuvale as the new development coach,” Nadolo-Kuridrani explained.

“Having been close to the team environment through my commentary work over the past few years, I’ve always dreamed of being part of the Drua family. To now begin my coaching journey with such a proud franchise truly means a lot.

“I’m grateful to Glen, Baden, and Mark for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I intend to repay that faith through hard work and commitment.

“The Drua is more than a team — it’s a symbol of pride and inspiration for our people across the islands. I’m looking forward to helping nurture young talent, instil positive habits, and strengthen the identity that makes the Drua so special.”