Samu Kerevi is a prominent Australian rugby union player, known for his powerful presence as a centre. Born on September 27, 1993, in Viseisei, Fiji, Kerevi has made significant strides in his rugby career, representing both the Australian national team and various club teams, including the Queensland Reds and Suntory Sungoliath in Japan.
Samu Kerevi Early Life and Background
Kerevi moved to Australia at the age of four with his family, settling in Brisbane. His upbringing was marked by challenges; he has openly discussed the difficult circumstances his family faced in Fiji, including issues related to crime. This background has instilled in him a strong sense of resilience and determination. Kerevi's athletic pedigree is evident; his father, Nimilote, played soccer for Fiji, and both of his brothers are also involved in rugby.
Kerevi's rugby journey began at Brisbane State High School, where he showcased his talent and represented Queensland at the Australian Schools Rugby Championships in 2011. His impressive performances led to his selection for the Fiji Under-20 team in 2012. However, he ultimately made the decision to represent Australia at the international level.
Professional Career
Queensland Reds
Kerevi signed with the Queensland Reds in 2014 and quickly established himself as a formidable force in Super Rugby. Known for his strong ball-carrying ability and physicality, he became a key player for the Reds. Over his time with the team, Kerevi earned accolades for his performances, becoming a fan favorite due to his explosive playing style.
His tenure with the Reds included notable achievements such as being named the team’s Player of the Year and earning selection for the Super Rugby Team of the Year. Kerevi's ability to break tackles and create scoring opportunities made him one of the most dangerous centres in the competition.
International Career
Kerevi made his debut for the Australian national team in June 2016 against England. His powerful running style quickly made him an integral part of the Wallabies setup. He represented Australia at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, where he played a crucial role in their campaign.
In addition to traditional 15-a-side rugby, Kerevi has also excelled in rugby sevens. He was selected to represent Australia at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021), showcasing his versatility as a player. His participation in sevens further highlighted his speed and agility on the field.
Suntory Sungoliath
In 2019, Kerevi joined Suntory Sungoliath in Japan’s Top League, where he continued to display his exceptional skills. His time in Japan has allowed him to develop further as a player while contributing significantly to his club's success.
Playing Style
Samu Kerevi is renowned for his combination of strength, agility, and skill. Standing at 186 cm (6 feet 1 inch) and weighing around 108 kg (238 lbs), he possesses a powerful physique that allows him to break through defensive lines effectively. His deceptive footwork makes him a challenging opponent for defenders, often resulting in line breaks and scoring opportunities.
Kerevi's playing style reflects modern rugby's demands; he is not only a strong ball-carrier but also capable of making crucial defensive plays. His ability to read the game and make quick decisions under pressure has endeared him to fans and coaches alike.
Recent Developments
As of late 2023, Kerevi continues to be an essential part of Australia's rugby landscape. He was named in the training squad ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023 and remains committed to contributing to the Wallabies' success on both domestic and international stages.
Samu Kerevi Conclusion
Samu Kerevi's journey from Fiji to becoming one of Australia's premier rugby players is a testament to his talent and determination. With numerous accolades under his belt and significant contributions to both club and country, Kerevi has established himself as a key figure in Australian rugby. As he continues to compete at high levels, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing how this remarkable athlete will further shape the future of rugby.
