Proud Fijian stars staying loyal to their native land

The resources of Fijian rugby have, by necessity and design, been ravaged over the years by the loss of 80% of their highest quality players.

With a national population of less than 900,000, the success enjoyed by Fiji in world rugby, particularly in Sevens, has been remarkable. But that has precipitated a mass exodus out of the country and particularly to near neighbour, New Zealand.

Hooker Tuapati Talemaitoga moved to the land of the long white cloud, to play with Southland, but stayed true to his homeland by declaring for Fiji. He is likely to make his 18th appearance off the bench at Thomond Park this afternoon and finds it easy to describe the warm glow he feels each time he gets to wear the white jersey.