Coventry statement: The immediate-effect signing of a Fijian tighthead

Mid-table Championship side Coventry have confirmed the signing of a Fijian tighthead who arrives with a reputation for explosive ball-carrying and genuine pace.

Alex Rae’s side are currently in seventh place in the English second tier after a 50/50 record in the opening part of their 2023/24 campaign, with two wins and two losses in four matches.

A statement read: “Coventry Rugby have announced the signing of Vilikesa Nairau, who joins the squad with immediate effect. The 21-year-old Fijian is a tighthead prop who is also able to operate on the left-hand side of the scrum when required.

“Nairau has represented his country at U20s level, playing against Argentina, Australia and New Zealand in a tournament held on the Sunshine Coast in 2022. He also recently played for the Fijian Armed Forces in the World Armed Forces Championship in France.

“In Fijian domestic rugby, Nairau plays for FMF Suva Rugby who lifted the Skipper Cup in October after the prop scored a match-clinching try in the final. He comes with a reputation for being an explosive ball-carrier with a real turn of pace.”

Coventry boss Rae added: “It’s great to welcome Vilikesa to Coventry. He is a young man with great potential and some fantastic attributes. Physically he is extremely gifted for a young prop and he can play both sides of the scrum which is a bonus.

“It’s our job to help him settle and feel really welcome as Coventry is a big change from what he is used to. It’s a really exciting signing; we believe it’s going to be a great fit for both parties and can’t wait to see him pull on a Cov shirt.”