Timoci Tavatavanawai

Strength through contact is the calling card of Timoci Tavatavanawai, a powerful and elusive outside back who adds real punch to the Highlanders' attack. Born on 14 February 1998, the New Zealand-based runner combines size and physicality with the finishing ability expected of a strike weapon. His breakthrough came during a standout 2023 Super Rugby Pacific season with the Fijian Drua, where he topped the competition for offloads and defenders beaten, form that earned him his move south to the Highlanders. For his new side, his role is to provide a constant attacking threat and to win crucial metres with every carry, using his ability to break tackles and keep the ball alive through contact. Defenders rarely bring him down with a single tackle, and his offloading game allows the Highlanders to maintain momentum and build pressure. More than just a powerful runner, he offers a blend of strength and skill that makes him difficult to plan for. As he settles into life with the Highlanders, Tavatavanawai looks to translate his eye-catching form into consistent, match-shaping performances.