Fijian Star Nayacalevu’s Brave Stance Pays Off as Players Receive Timely Payments

It’s been less than two months since Waisea Nayacalevu spoke out against the corruption plaguing Fijian rugby, and his courageous words have already yielded tangible results. The 34-year-old center, who now plays for Sale in the Gallagher Premiership, revealed that Fiji’s players had considered striking before their World Cup quarter-final with England last year due to late payment of wages.

Nayacalevu’s Efforts Lead to Positive Changes

Nayacalevu’s decision to publicly criticize his country’s rugby bosses was a bold move, but one that has clearly paid off. Ahead of Fiji’s clash with Wales in Cardiff on Sunday, the veteran player proudly declared, “The results have been so good. The boys were paid on time for the summer Tests. Everything is up to date on the finances, probably because of what I did.”

“The Prime Minister used to play for Fiji, so he understands the players’ point of view. He wanted to support the boys,” Nayacalevu explained.

Nayacalevu’s summit talks with Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka have paved the way for a brighter future, as the leader’s understanding of the players’ perspective has led to much-needed improvements.

Fiji’s Reinforced Lineup Poses a Challenge for Wales

The Fijian squad, which was hammered 57-17 by Scotland last weekend, has now been bolstered by the arrival of their star players based in England and France, including Nayacalevu, Josua Tuisova, and Semi Radradra. This reinforced lineup will present a more-than-tough challenge for a youthful Wales side that has lost its last nine Tests.

“Once you look after the players, the players will look after themselves. If we can bring more professionalism, it will lead to more consistency,” Nayacalevu aptly summarized.

Nayacalevu’s brave stance and the subsequent positive changes have undoubtedly set the stage for Fiji to showcase their renowned free-flowing, attacking rugby.

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