Josua Tuisova departure cruelly robs rugby world of game-changing midfield duo
Ever since it was announced in February that Semi Radradra would be joining Lyon from Bristol Bears, fans across the world have been teased with the dream of the Fijian teaming up with his compatriot Josua Tuisova.
The pair have played alongside each other for Fiji and did for Toulon as well, but never as a centre partnership. But since Tuisova has transitioned to No12 this season, that dream looked like it was close to becoming a reality. Both were primarily wingers while at Toulon, but a 12-13 partnership would have been devastating.
There have been plenty of roadblocks along the way though, as there have been conflicting reports suggesting Tuisova has agreed to join Racing 92 next season. While his next destination is yet to be confirmed, the unfortunate news is that Lyon have announced that he has left the club following their Top 14 quarter-final loss to Bordeaux-Begles at the weekend.
This is what Lyon wrote on Instagram after confirming his departure: “You dazzled us with your class for 4 seasons in the Lyon jersey. Fantastic, huge, monstrous, there is no shortage of qualifiers to describe your performances. Discreet but appreciated by all, you will also leave lasting memories for LOU supporters, who will long remember your power, your speed and your phenomenal gestures. We wish you the best for your future.”
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While the dream is over of seeing that partnership in the Top 14 and the Heineken Champions Cup next season, fans will get to see plenty of it over the coming months, as both players were selected in Simon Raiwalui’s Fiji squad today for their July Tests.
Fiji Water Flying Fijians 46-member wider squad:
Loosehead Prop
Peni Ravai
Haereti Hetet
Eroni Mawi
Meli Tuni*
Hooker
Samuela Matavesi
Tevita Ikanivere
Zuriel Togiatama*
Mesulame Dolokoto
Tighthead Prop
Mesake Doge
Luke Tagi
Samu Tawake
Jone Koroiduadua*
Second Row
Isoa Nasilasila
Apisalome Ratuniyarawa
Temo Mayanavanua
Utility Forwards
Albert Tuisue
Peceli Yato
Lekima Tagitagivalu*
Joseva Tamani*
Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta
Back row
Levani Botia
Viliame Mata
Meli Derenalagi*
Vilive Miramira*
Kitione Kamikamica
Halfback
Frank Lomani
Simione Kuruvoli
Peni Matawalu
Fly-half
Teti Tela
Caleb Muntz*
Ben Volavola
Inside Centre
Josua Tuisova
Kalaveti Ravouvou
Adrea Cocagi
Outside Centre
Waisea Nayacalevu
Iosefo Masi*
Seta Tamanivalu
Back Three
Vinaya Habosi
Jiuta Wainiqolo
Selestino Ravutaumada*
Ilaisa Drosese
Setareki Tuicuvu
Utility
Semi Radradra
Sireli Maqala
Vilimoni Botitu
Key: * Uncapped Players