Setareki Tamanivalu's rugby career has been marked by notable achievements and transitions. Here is a summary of his playing career:
Tamanivalu attended Lelean Memorial School in Fiji, where he excelled in both rugby union and rugby league.
He migrated to New Zealand and received a scholarship at Saint Kentigern College to further pursue rugby.
Tamanivalu made his professional debut for Taranaki in the 2012 ITM Cup competition, playing as a replacement against Hawke's Bay.
In 2014, he had an outstanding ITM Cup season, drawing attention from Super Rugby franchises in New Zealand and Australia. He ultimately signed with the Chiefs.
The 2016 Super Rugby season was a breakthrough for Tamanivalu. He became a regular starter for the Chiefs and finished as one of the competition's top try-scorers, with nine tries.
As a result of his impressive performances, Tamanivalu earned a spot in the All Blacks' squad for the 2016 June international test series against Wales.
He made his international debut on 11 June 2016 in the first test against Wales, coming off the bench for a five-minute appearance. The All Blacks won the match 39-21.
Tamanivalu continued to represent the All Blacks, featuring in the 2016 Rugby Championship.
In 2017, he joined the Crusaders for the Super Rugby season, primarily playing on the wing. He scored a try in the 2017 Super Rugby Final, helping the Crusaders secure their eighth Super Rugby title.
Tamanivalu also played against the British and Irish Lions in 2017, representing the Crusaders.
After his stint with the Crusaders, he signed a three-year deal with Union Bordeaux Bègles in France in 2018.
Tamanivalu made significant contributions to Bordeaux, both in the TOP 14 and the European Rugby Challenge Cup.
He later obtained an early release from Bordeaux to join Toshiba Brave Lupus in the Japanese Top League for the 2020/21 season.
Throughout his career, Tamanivalu has displayed power, skill, and try-scoring ability, earning recognition at both domestic and international levels.
KG(21/06/2023)
Career
Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo Outside Centre |
2020 - present | |
NZ Barbarians Outside Centre |
2015 - 2016 | |
Chiefs Outside Centre |
2015 - 2017 | |
New Zealand Right Wing |
2016 - 2017 | |
Crusaders Outside Centre |
2017 - 2018 | |
Taranaki Outside Centre |
||
Union Bordeaux Begles Outside Centre |
2018 - 2020 | |
Fiji Outside Centre |
2022 - 2023 | |
Barbarians Outside Centre |
2016 - 2024 |