Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson wants Meli Derenalagi to be the best blindside flanker in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, Jackson said that was the reason Derenalagi was relieved of his captaincy position.

“Meli is on board with us (on the decision) so he can just focus on his rugby,” Jackson said.

The no-nonsense coach has named hooker Tevita Ikanivere and veteran halfback Frank Lomani as the Drua’s co-captains for the 2025 season.

“Both have been here for a long time; professionalism on and off the field. That means it is a great choice for them to lead us into the 2025 season.

“It is a decision our coaching staff is very excited by since this is the first time we are having co-captains. It is something good for the club.”

From the Drua squad announced yesterday, the surprise omission was centre, Apisalome Vota, Michael Naitokani and prop Jone Koroiduadua, who has signed up with an American club to play in the Major League Rugby competition.

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