Rabuka recalled the referee for that day was Air Commodore Lamb, who had just months earlier flown a Cold War spy out from behind the USSR border.
The late Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese (Snr) during his FRU life member induction in 2019.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka shared a heartfelt tribute to his former national rugby team-mate Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese.
“Today, we mourn the passing of a great Fijian rugby legend, Ilaitia Tuisese,” he said.
“I had the privilege of playing alongside him as a prop forward during our national rugby team’s tour of England and Wales in 1970, part of the centennial celebrations of the English Rugby Football Union.
“10th October 1970 remains etched in my memory. As we were preparing to face the British Combined Services, we heard the band strike up what we thought was “Meda dau doka…” our national anthem, for the first time.
“At first, we were still busy talking and checking our spikes and boots, until I noticed Officer Cadet Alex Eastgate and Ratu Josua Rabukawaqa standing at attention, facing the flagpole. I whispered to my team-mates to stand tall and face the flag too.
“I had initially thought the flag being raised was the Royal Air Force’s due to its sky-blue colour and the Union Flag in the corner. I mistook the Fiji Coat of Arms for the RAF’s Red, White, and Blue Roundel.
“It was only then that we realised we were witnessing the raising of the new Fijian flag, hearing our anthem for the first time in that historic moment.”
Rabuka recalled the referee for that day was Air Commodore Lamb, who had just months earlier flown a Cold War spy out from behind the USSR border. He said it was an unforgettable experience, and moments like that truly lasted a lifetime.
“Ilaitia stood strong that day, just as he did in every match. He was more than just a team-mate, he was a leader, a powerhouse on the field, and a true friend off it. His exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to the game earned him the respect of everyone who played with him. We shared many victories, including our memorable win against Oxford University, and I will forever cherish those moments.
“Ilaitia’s legacy extends far beyond rugby; his contributions to the sport and his role in shaping the future of Fijian rugby will never be forgotten. “Today, we not only honour a legend but also a man whose presence will be deeply missed.
“Rest in peace, Ilaitia Tuisese. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew you and in the history of Fijian rugby.”
Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj
