Fiji Centre Virimi Vakatawa Set for England Debut

From French Bar to Fiji Call‑up

Virimi Vakatawa, now 34, was once a fixture in the French midfield, earning 32 caps and starring in the 2019 Rugby World Cup quarter‑final. In September 2022 a panel of doctors ruled his cardiac health had deteriorated, effectively ending his domestic career in France. The ban, however, only applied at home, allowing him to keep playing abroad. After a season with Bristol, where he made 19 appearances in 2023‑24, he signed for the Fijian Drua in January. Fiji have now named him as a replacement for Semi Radradra, who suffered a knee injury against Wales.

A Fresh Start After Heart Issues

Vakatawa says he never imagined he would play international rugby again after being told his heart condition made elite sport too risky. He recalls thinking “it was over” the day the French authorities acted, though he held onto the hope of playing club rugby. The news of his inclusion in Fiji’s squad surprised him, especially given the talent pool he now faces. “It is an honour and a privilege for me to be here and to be part of this environment,” he told BBC Sport. He also notes that differing cardiologist opinions have not shaken his confidence; “I’m all good, I feel as well as ever.”

Reunited with Former Bristol Team‑mate

Should Vakatawa feature at Liverpool’s Hill Dickinson Stadium, he could face another recent switch of allegiance in Benhard Janse van Rensburg. The two centres lined up together in nine Premiership fixtures for Bristol last season, forming a solid half‑back combination. Vakatawa describes Janse van Rensburg as “a good man… a team player… very solid, he’s strong.” He wishes the new England hope “well for his career” as both prepare for a showdown on Saturday. Janse van Rensburg’s eligibility for England marks his first taste of Test rugby, while Vakatawa aims to make a memorable debut for Fiji.

England’s Struggles and Upcoming Schedule

England are currently on a five‑match losing streak that stretches back to February, a run that has left them hovering near the bottom of the recent form charts. The team is expected to confirm their lineup on Thursday ahead of the fixture against Fiji. Their summer commitments continue in the new Nations Championship, culminating with a visit to Argentina on 18 July in Santiago del Estero. The run‑in offers England a chance to break the losing habit, while Fiji look to build on Vakatawa’s emotional return to international rugby.