Meli Tuni

Meli Tuni is a flanker who plays the high-octane, physical brand of rugby that has become the hallmark of the Fijian Drua. Born on 29 June 2000, the Fijian back-rower is a dynamic, hard-tackling forward whose energy and aggression make him an important contributor to the Drua's pack in Super Rugby Pacific. Tuni does much of his best work at the breakdown, competing for turnover ball and slowing opposition possession, while his support play in the open field allows the side to keep the ball alive and play at the relentless tempo they favour. He combines the athleticism typical of Fijian forwards with a genuine appetite for the defensive grind, throwing himself into tackles and covering ground across the field. As part of a Drua side that has quickly established itself as a competitive force in the southern hemisphere, Tuni offers the kind of abrasive, high-effort forward play that complements the franchise's expansive instincts. Combative and tireless, he is a useful presence in a back row that thrives on physicality and pace.