It was a dream come true for former Suva Grammar School student Philip Baselala when he debuted for the Fiji Water Flying Fijians on Sunday at McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle, Australia.

The Drua halfback came off the bench to replace Simione Kuruvoli in their Test match against the Wallabies on Sunday.

The Solotavui, Nakasaleka, Kadavu native said he had one thing in mind when he ran out to the field.

“I was really excited when I ran out – just to go there and do the job and deliver good balls and just stay in the moment after moment,” he said.

“It is a dream come true playing alongside some big names from France. It is just a mixed feeling. Yes, I loved it.”

He acknowledged the support of his family; his mother Elenoa Masi Baselala and sister Naomi Baselala travelled from Fiji to watch him in Australia.

“They (family) told me to just go out there and just be you and enjoy the game.”

He added being advised from senior team members before the match was encouraging.

Baselala, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Sireli Maqala and Kuruvoli all played for Nabua rugby team in the Suva Rugby Union club competition.

And the 20-year-old was grateful to the club for opening the door for them to start their rugby careers.

“Like I said, it is a very special moment for us being club mates and wearing the national jersey and representing Fiji.”

He indicated the Test match was more intense compared to what he experienced in the Super Rugby Pacific competition.

“It’s on another level. We have got to be switched on every time,” Baselala added.

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