Mataiasi Stark 
From left: Temo Mayanavanua, Manasa Mataele and Issak Fines-Leleiwasa
With pre-season preparations underway, Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson says the club’s incoming senior players are already making an impact behind the scenes, even before the full squad assembles for 2026.
Jackson noted that the team needed additional leadership following offseason departures, and early signs suggest the newcomers are filling that void with confidence and professionalism.
“We needed some players, obviously we lost a few leaders in our team, so to bring in some people like, especially Temo (Mayanavanua), who’s played Heineken Cup and Premiership English rugby, to bring him in has been awesome.”
He added that Mayanavanua, though currently with the Flying Fijians, has shown strong commitment to integrating into the Drua environment.
Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson
Jackson also praised NPC winner Manasa Mataele and experienced Super Rugby halfback Issak Fines-Leleiwasa for what they bring not only in skill but in standards.
“Manasa, winning NPC a couple of weeks ago, in terms of what he brings is really good. Issak Fines-Leleiwasa as well, obviously just guys that have been there and done it in Super Rugby.”
With the Drua continuing to evolve as a young franchise, Jackson believes the injection of seasoned voices will be crucial.
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