Rebels lock in Fijian winger Naivalu

The Super Rebels are set to have a flying Fijian on each wing next year after rising star Sefanaia Naivalu agreed to a new contract tying him to the Super Rugby franchise until at least the end of the 2019 season.

Naivalu, who made his debut at the start of last season, has scored six tries in 19 appearances for the Rebels and recently returned from a broken leg which ended his rookie season.

“His electrifying pace and physical presence, synonymous with Fijian rugby, has quickly made him a Melbourne Rebels’ fan favourite,” coach Tony McGahan said of the 24-year-old outside back.

Naivalu is a longtime friend of dynamic Melbourne Storm winger Marika Koroibete, who will swap codes next year to line up with the Rebels.

Naivalu moved to Melbourne in 2013 and cut his teeth in the local rugby competition before attracting the attention of the Rebels.

“It’s a great honour to re-sign with the Rebels, the club has a good atmosphere, good staff and a good group of blokes so it’s exciting to play for the Rebels for the next few seasons, he said.

The Rebels host the Western Force at AAMI Park on Sunday.

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