Rhys Webb: International superstars start to arrive in Dubai

Thursday, 09 October 2025 at 12:10

byRugby Rucker

I had the privilege of sitting down with Waisea Nayacalevu during his time here in Dubai. I really appreciated his time, and it’s easy to see why he’s been chosen as Ambassador of the Dubai Knights RFC.

Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel
and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.

Every Fijian I’ve met in rugby shares something special — humble, grounded, and always smiling both on and off the field. Waisea is no different. He’s a world-class player, but beyond the talent and physicality, what stands out most is his passion for giving back to the community and inspiring the next generation.

That’s what makes him more than just a rugby superstar.

Q: What excites you most about becoming Ambassador of the Dubai Knights?
Waisea Nayacalevu:
“The vision of trying to build rugby here really excites me. It aligns perfectly with what I want to do after my playing career — to give back to the community and help inspire and support the younger generation.”

Q: If you could bring one thing from Fijian rugby culture into the Dubai Knights, what would it be?
Waisea Nayacalevu:
“Commitment. In Fiji, we are taught to always give 100% on and off the field for our team. That’s what I want to bring to the Dubai Knights — that sense of total commitment. The goal is to help build this club to one day become one of the best teams in the Middle East.”

Q: You’ve played with and against some of the great players — but who is the funniest?
Waisea Nayacalevu:
“I’ve been lucky enough to play with and against some of the greatest players in world rugby — from Biggs (Dan Biggar) to Cheslin Kolbe, Gaël Fickou and Jonathan Danty. But when it comes to the funniest teammate I’ve ever had, it has to be the one and only Jiuta Wainiqolo. Absolute character on and off the field, never a dull moment when he’s around!”