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Rugby weeps as Josua Tuisova family tragedy emerges
By Grant Constable
Fijian star Josua Tuisova reportedly learned of tragic news just hours prior to kick off of the Pool C clash against Georgia in Bordeaux.
The powerhouse centre was told that his seven-year-old son had passed away after battling a long illness. He opted to not fly home to Fiji for the funeral.
Incredibly, Tuisova not only played the match but was captured after the game giving his time and energy to fans for over 30 minutes despite the unfolding tragedy back home in Fiji.
According to Fijian news website Fiji Village, the 29-year-old centre learned of his son Tito's passing from his father Isikeli Ratulevu shortly before the Georgia match.
Fiji went on to win 17-12 in a close contest, with Tuisova a big contributor to the win but also being sin-binned a minute from time for a high tackle.
"With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Tito Micgabraph Donzel Ratulevu," a statement in Fiji read last Friday.
"He is the son of Mr Josua Tuisova and Mrs Katarina Ladoge Ramoce. Affectionately known as 'Tito,' he peacefully departed after a prolonged battle with a debilitating illness in Lautoka hospital."
Tuisova, who will join Racing 92 post tournament, has reportedly chosen to stay in France and miss the funeral, that took place today.
According to his father, the Fiji ace was told of the awful news just hours before kickoff against Georgia.
The win over Georgia leaves Fiji requiring just one point from their final Pool C match with Portugal on Sunday in order to progress to the quarter finals, at the expense of the Wallabies.
The Pacific Islanders will then likely face England, who they beat for the first time at Twickenham in August.
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Latest Comments
Let's be clear: Foster did not back unaquivocally players such as Vaa'i, Tamaiti and Roigard. Yes, he selected them in the squad, but it's a stretch to say he backed them. Those three players have only been backed fully this year (and thrived) under the new regime. There was massive hesitation to give those three guys serious game time in games of consequence.
It's another not-so-subtle dig from the old dynasty at any achievements Razor may be credited for.
Roigard in particular was a mind-baffling omission from the finals of the WC. After being the AB's best player against SA in the pre-WC match, he was not sighted in the big games that followed. Roigard is the type of guy who can win a game with a moment of brilliance, yet the established but uninspiring Christie was preferred to close out a close WC final.
So please, Fozzie, spare us the barely veiled laments about your unfair treatment and unseen achievements. The fact you feel you have to point them out is telling in itself. And it shows that despite saying you've moved on, you and your mate Hansen most definitely haven't.
Go to commentsHe's just a wannabe troll, mate.
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