GLEN Jackson will leave the Fijian Drua for undisclosed reasons.
News of the head coach’s imminent departure came ahead of a clash against the ACT Brumbies in Canberra.
Jackson has been with the Fijian Drua from 2022 as an invaluable factor in the development of young rugby players in the club’s academy.
“I just want to say a massive thank you. It’s been six years of my life here, not only with the Drua but also with the Flying Fijians during the Rugby World Cup,” said Jackson.
“Fiji means a lot to me. It means a lot to my family. I will sorely miss everything I’ve been through in this wonderful team and country.”
The Drua injury list has been concerning this season. Key players who are ruled out are Frank Lomani, Ponipate Loganimasi and Epeli Momo. Elia Canakaivata joins the injury list this week with a sore hip.
After a few weeks’ rest, second-rower Temo Mayanavanua makes his return as the Drua look to add weight in the forward pack. Isoa Tuwai will start at number eight to replace Canakaivata.
Despite losing to the Drua in round five, the ACT Brumbies are a quality side. They are currently fourth on the table and have recorded some good wins this season, including a victory over the Crusaders in Christchurch.
“It’s going to be a tough match in Canberra. I’m sure they’ll be looking forward to some return fire. But we are going in there with some confidence after the win from the weekend,” said Jackson.
“This game will be massive around our maul. We know where they are going to come. They are good with the ball in hand. They have a very dangerous and fast back-three. We’ve got to make sure that when we do kick, we kick well.”
