Fiji's speedster Jiuta Wainiqolo is revving up for the ultimate showdown – taking on England at the rugby world stage. This Saturday, he'll bring his Top 14 top-scoring credentials to bear against the Three Lions in a mouth-watering encounter that promises to be a humdinger of a contest! With an astonishing 18 tries to his name from just 20 matches for Lyon, Wainiqolo has left all and sundry in awe with his blistering pace and pin-point running. And it's no wonder – his nearest rival in the Top 14 try-scoring stakes was a respectable 13 tries short of his tally!
Wainiqolo's journey to rugby stardom began in the foothills of football, where he even trialled for Fiji's under-20 national squad. He credits his time on the pitch with honing the very skills that now make him such a force on the rugby field – agility and footwork that would put many a sprinter to shame! "I played football in school and then was blessed to get picked for Fiji's under-20s squad," he recalled, adding that the agility training has been invaluable for his ankle strength, leg power, and ability to change direction and sidestep opponents with ease.
But Wainiqolo's breakthrough moment came on the international Sevens stage. Recognizing the Olympic Games as a prime opportunity for a professional contract, he earned a spot in the national Sevens squad for the Tokyo 2021 Olympics – and what an occasion it was! Despite being isolated from his family for four months due to COVID-19 restrictions, Wainiqolo emerged as Fiji's top try-scorer with five tries, contributing significantly to their gold medal victory. It was a moment that will stay etched in the memories of rugby fans worldwide!
After this success, he moved to French rugby giants Toulon – but a desire for more consistent game time led him to Lyon for the 2024-25 season. And what a shrewd move it proved to be! At Lyon, Wainiqolo has found a renewed enjoyment for the game, stating, "I don't worry about the stats and the tries. I'm just enjoying playing. I love this game." His words speak volumes of his passion and dedication to the sport.
Looking ahead to the clash with England, Wainiqolo expressed confidence in Fiji's physical capabilities. Reflecting on England's recent match against South Africa, he asserted, "We watched a bit of England's game against South Africa and South Africa are world number one, so they're physical, but I think we are more physical than South Africa." He believes that by addressing areas where they fell short in their previous game against Wales, Fiji can present a formidable challenge to England.
Source: Fiji Rugby Union