The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua continues to bolster its squad for the new season, with the signing of powerhouse lock Angelo Smith.

Smith, a former Marist Brothers High School (Suva) and Saint Thomas High School (Lautoka) student, joins the Drua after previously appearing for the Melbourne Rebels in Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific.

Powerful on both attack and defence, Smith brings with him the utility value of also playing at blindside flanker.

His return home means Smith will get to add to his four tries and 20 Super Rugby Pacific appearances in front of his loved ones.

The 24-year-old is originally from Nananu, Tailevu, with maternal links to Lomati, Kabara in Lau. He has signed a two-year deal with the Fijian Drua.

“I am really looking forward to it, been playing my rugby away from home, very excited to play some footy in front of my family and friends,” Smith said.

He began his rugby journey at Marist Brothers High School and represented the Fiji Under-20. Smith moved to Brisbane to join Wests Rugby in the Hospital Cup, helping them end a 16-year drought to win the trophy in 2022. He joined the Melbourne Rebels in 2023.

Fijian Drua general manager Rugby, Baden Stephenson said: “Angelo is a quality player with 20 Super Rugby caps to his name.

“He will add size, skill, speed and experience to our forward pack. It is great that players want to return home and Angelo’s best rugby is in front of him.

“I have every confidence that he will take this opportunity and love the Drua rugby environment.”

–Fijian Drua