Vakatawa Close to Comeback with Fiji After Fearing Test Career Was Over

New Delhi, India Jul 7, 2026 ALN: Virimi Vakatawa, who could make his Fiji debut against England on Saturday (14:10 BST), says he never dared to believe he would play international again after a heart condition abruptly ended his 32-cap France career.

The 34-year-old centre was barred from playing in France in September 2022 after a panel of doctors determined that his cardiac health had deteriorated, rendering him too vulnerable to compete at an elite level in the country. This decision not only halted his professional career in France but also dashed his hopes of continuing as a key member of France's national team, where he had previously played significant roles, including starting in the 2019 World Cup quarter-final against Wales and being a regular in the Six Nations.

The implications of such a ruling are profound, not only for the player but also for the teams involved. For Vakatawa, being sidelined due to health concerns meant grappling with the uncertainty that comes with a sudden career interruption. Athletes often face the challenge of mental health issues when dealing with injuries or health-related setbacks, and Vakatawa's situation is no exception. The emotional toll of being forced out of a he loves can be immense, especially for someone who has achieved as much as he has in .

Despite the setback in France, the ruling only applied to domestic competitions. Vakatawa found a pathway back to the game by signing with Bristol for a season, where he was evaluated by the Bears' own medical experts. This opportunity allowed him to remain active in the , and in January, he signed with the Fijian Drua, a team in the Super Pacific competition. This move not only provided him with a platform to showcase his skills but also reignited his passion for the game, as he was able to compete in a less restrictive environment. The Super Pacific competition has been known for its competitive nature, and playing for the Drua allowed Vakatawa to regain his confidence and form.

Vakatawa's call-up to the Fiji national squad comes as a result of an injury to Semi Radradra, who sustained a knee injury during a recent match against Wales. The timing of this opportunity is crucial, as it allows Vakatawa to step into a significant role for Fiji, a team known for its rich heritage and competitive spirit on the international stage. Fiji has a storied history in , often celebrated for their flair and skill on the field, making their players highly sought after in both domestic and international competitions.

Under World 's 'birthright' rule, Vakatawa is eligible to represent Fiji, given that he was born in New Zealand but moved back to Fiji, his parents' homeland, as a child. This rule permits players to switch their national allegiance to a country where they, or their ancestors, were born after a three-year stand-down period from international play. This flexibility in eligibility has allowed many players to represent nations that resonate with their cultural and familial backgrounds. It highlights the global nature of , where players often have connections to multiple countries and can bring their diverse experiences to the teams they choose to represent.

Reflecting on his journey, Vakatawa expressed surprise at being selected for the national team, stating, "No, to be honest with you. Playing international is something that I knew I was not going to be able to do. From that day [of being barred from playing in France], I thought it was over." His humility and gratitude for the opportunity to represent Fiji are evident, as he acknowledges the wealth of talent within the team and the honor it is to wear the national jersey. This sentiment resonates deeply within the community, where players often view representing their country as the pinnacle of their careers.

While Vakatawa has been absent from international play, he has maintained a high profile in the scene. His powerful playing style and exceptional offloading ability have made him a regular participant for the Barbarians, an invitational team known for its entertaining style of play. He recently showcased his talents in matches against South Africa and Wales, where he scored a try and assisted another against the Springboks, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable player. The Barbarians have a unique role in , often serving as a platform for players to display their skills outside the constraints of traditional team structures, and Vakatawa's involvement with them has kept him in the public eye during his hiatus from international competition.

Addressing concerns regarding his heart condition, which was first detected in 2019, Vakatawa expressed confidence in his health. He stated, "I'm all good, I feel as well as ever. Different opinions from different cardiologists and different specialists - I'm not really worried about that. Whatever the doctors say, that's their opinion. So, I respect whatever past doctors and cardiologists have said, but what matters for me is I'm here and I'm healthy." This positive outlook demonstrates his resilience and determination to overcome past challenges, a mindset that is crucial for athletes facing health-related hurdles. His experience can serve as an inspiration for others in similar situations, showing that with the right support and determination, it is possible to return to the one loves.

Should he be selected for Saturday's match at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, Vakatawa may have the opportunity to face another player making his international debut under similar circumstances. Benhard Janse van Rensburg, a former teammate from Bristol, is set to become eligible for England for the first time at the Test level. Vakatawa praised Janse van Rensburg, highlighting his work ethic and team spirit, saying, "He is a good man. He is a team player, I can say. He works hard for the team. He's very solid, he's strong, and I'm just going to wish him well for his career." This camaraderie among players, even when they are on opposing sides, reflects the mutual respect that exists within the community. It underscores the idea that while competition is fierce, the bonds formed through shared experiences and struggles often transcend the game itself.

As for England, they are currently facing a challenging period, having lost their last five matches dating back to February. The team is expected to announce their lineup on Thursday, ahead of their concluding summer schedule in the new Nations Championship against Argentina in Santiago del Estero on July 18. This match against Fiji presents an opportunity for England to turn their fortunes around and regain confidence as they prepare for future competitions. The pressure is mounting on the England squad, and a victory against a competitive Fiji team could serve as a much-needed morale boost as they look to re-establish themselves as a dominant force in international .

Fiji v England

Nations Championship

Saturday 11 July, 14:10 BST kick-off

Hill Dickinson Stadium, Liverpool

The upcoming match not only holds significance for Vakatawa and his potential return to international but also serves as a critical juncture for both teams as they navigate their respective challenges. For Fiji, the match represents an opportunity to showcase their talent and resilience, while for England, it is a chance to break their losing streak and re-establish themselves as a competitive force in international . The outcome of this match could have lasting implications for both teams as they prepare for future tournaments and strive to achieve their goals on the international stage.