Gus Sowakula

Born on 26 October 1994, Gus Sowakula is a Fijian back-row forward whose blend of size, footwork and stamina makes him a handful in the loose. Now plying his trade with ASM Clermont Auvergne in France's Top 14, he is valued for his strong ball-carrying, his work over the ball at the breakdown and a turn of pace that is unusual for a man of his frame. Sowakula spent the early part of his career in New Zealand before switching his international allegiance to Fiji, the country of his birth. He marked that decision in style, crossing for a try on his test debut against the All Blacks in 2022. For Clermont he offers genuine physicality and a turnover threat in the back row, qualities that stiffen the pack's defensive effort and give the side go-forward in contact. A relentless presence around the ruck, he is the kind of forward who does the unglamorous work that allows others to shine, while remaining a danger with ball in hand whenever space opens up.