Andrew Durutalo’s hiatus from rugby was short-lived. The former Eagles back row was a surprise signing confirmed by the Seattle Seawolves on Saturday, the revelation coming just three weeks after Durutalo had announced he was leaving Ealing Trailfinders to return home to Fiji.
It’s a major addition to the Seawolves pack. Durutalo has remained in top form with the Trailfinders since opting to retire from international duty in May 2018. The 32-year-old gives the two-time defending champions two full sets of loose forwards with virtually indistinguishable quality.
The signing suggests that Samu Manoa will not be returning to Seattle with potential roster spots now seemingly filled. It remains unclear what the giant Californian’s future plans are in rugby. In the meantime Durutalo is set to make his Seawolves debut against the Tasman Mako on Sunday evening.