Wallabies winger eyes move to flanker

Daugunu, who currently plays on the wing for the Reds in Super Rugby, has built his career as a dynamic and physical outside back.

Born in Fiji, he relocated to Australia in 2016 at the age of 20 to chase professional opportunities, eventually earning international selection for Australia in October 2020. Now, however, he is considering a future that could see him move into the forward pack.

His interest in the position isn’t purely hypothetical. During a match against the Brumbies a couple of weeks ago, Daugunu briefly shifted into the flanker role late in the game and even contributed at two scrums, offering a glimpse into what such a transition might look like.

"I'm thinking about it, maybe in two years time. For us backs, I'm tired of running around at the back. At the moment, I just stick to any position that the coaches want me to play, and I'll do any, even if they put me in the forwards, I'm also ready for that."

The 31-year-old has also been vocal with teammates about his willingness to step in wherever needed.

"I've been talking to Jock (Campbell), telling Jock that if anyone's injured, I'll be there, be happy to play there if they want me to."

Daugunu’s fascination with the flanker role, particularly the number seven position, has led him to closely study teammates like Fraser McReight.

"For me, it's part of my game to try and be like an actual number seven because I love doing it and I learn a lot from watching Fraser (McReight), those who have played seven before.

"We are talking about who gets the most turnovers in a game, and it is a competition between me and him at the moment, to get the most turnovers in a game. I've been learning a lot from him, to try and be better as an individual and improve to my skills in the game."

Already experimenting with playing as an additional flanker within the backline, Daugunu remains optimistic about the shift.

"Yes, that's what I'm trying to do. And hopefully maybe pushing to number seven at one point."