Fiji welcome favourite son home for Super Rugby

Three-time World Cup player Leone Nakarawa is returning home to Fiji to play for the Drua in the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific competition.

One of the most storied Flying Fijians of all time, Nakarawa is set to bring much-needed experience to the young Drua squad.

As well as being a part of three Rugby World Cup campaigns, including 2015 when he was selected in the official team of the tournament, the 38-year-old was part of their gold medal-winning sevens squad at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The offload specialist has made 132 professional appearances across stints at the Glasgow Warriors, Racing 92, Toulon and Castres, and won 68 Test caps.

The quietly spoken Nakarawa said he was looking forward to playing for the Drua and being back in Fiji.

Fijian Drua general manager rugby Baden Stephenson welcomed a favourite son home.

"Leone is a quality person, quality leader and big-game player," he said in a statement on Tuesday.

"We are excited to bring someone of his vast experience into the forward pack. It will be very special seeing Leone represent his family, village and country in the Super Rugby competition."