Api Ratuniyarawa, born on 11 July 1986, is an exceptional rugby union player who currently represents English Premiership side London Irish.
He showcased his talent on the international stage when he was named in Fiji's squad for the 2015 Rugby World Cup. In September 2016, Ratuniyarawa made a significant move to Northampton Saints, where he joined fellow Fijian player Campese Ma'afu at the club.
Since joining Saints, the powerful lock has made his mark, featuring in several games and earning his 20th cap for Fiji against his own Northampton Saints teammates at Twickenham in November 2016. As his time with the club progressed, Ratuniyarawa accumulated 31 appearances, contributing to the team's campaign to secure European Champions Cup rugby for the 2017/18 season.
Notably, he made a significant impact when he came off the bench in the European Champions Cup play-off final against Stade Francais, securing the last spot in the following season's competition with a one-point victory. Ratuniyarawa's talent was also recognized on the international stage as he was selected for Fiji's summer series in 2017 alongside his fellow Northampton Saint, Campese Ma'afu.
Prior to joining Northampton Saints, Ratuniyarawa had already gained valuable experience, having played 70 games for Agen in France. His performances at Northampton Saints earned him the prestigious Saints Breakthrough Player of the Year award during the 2017/18 season.
Ratuniyarawa's rugby journey started when he made his Fijian debut against England in 2012. Since then, he has become a regular in the national side and represented Fiji in the 2015 Rugby World Cup, earning two caps in the tournament. His 20th cap came in a memorable match against his own Northampton Saints teammates when England faced Fiji in 2016.
Ratuniyarawa's remarkable skills as a ball carrier, his ability to break through the gain line, and his deft offloading abilities make him a constant threat all over the field for Northampton Saints. He has been instrumental in some of the club's notable victories, including triumphs over Stade Francais to reach the Champions Cup in 2016/17, as well as wins against Leicester Tigers and Clermont Auvergne.
With over 60 appearances for Northampton Saints, Ratuniyarawa's talent and dedication earned him a place in Fiji's Rugby World Cup squad, where he increased his cap tally to 35. Furthermore, he entered the 2019/20 Champions Cup with an impressive 15 European caps to his name.
After making 79 appearances for Northampton Saints, Ratuniyarawa solidified his commitment to the club by signing a new deal, ensuring his continued presence at Franklin's Gardens.
KG(20/06/2023)
Career
 |
London Irish No 4 Lock |
2022 - present |
 |
World XV No 4 Lock |
2023 - present |
 |
North Harbour No 4 Lock |
2015 - 2015 |
 |
Agen No 4 Lock |
2015 - 2016 |
 |
Northampton Saints No 4 Lock |
2017 - 2022 |
 |
Fiji No 5 Lock |
2012 - 2023 |
 |
Bayonne No 4 Lock |
2023 - 2024 |
