Former Suva Grammar School Under 18 half-back Philip Baselala has been awarded a full-time playing contract and has been drafted into the main Swire Shipping Fijian Drua squad for the 2023 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific.
At just 18 years old, he becomes one of the youngest players to sign a full Super Rugby Pacific contract.
In 2022, Baselala starred as a half-back for Suva Grammar School in Fiji’s Deans competition, as well as Fiji’s U20 and the Fiji Warriors teams.
He has previously played for Fiji Under 18 and his inclusion comes as regular Drua half-back, Simione Kuruvoli is ruled out for most of the season as he recovers from shoulder surgery.
Drua CEO Mark Evans says
the fact that they have already identified players to move from the development group into the main playing squad for two key positions showcases their commitment to their player pathways.
Evans says
it is one of the key strategic objectives of their Club to offer capable young Fijian players a clear progression to being professional footballers right here at home.
The announcement is the culmination of a stellar playing year for Baselala. I mean he Drua contract, year 13 pass he is winning.
The Fijian Drua will meet the Melbourne Rebels at 3 pm Saturday at Prince Charles Park, for its first pre-season trial match.
Source: Fijivillage
