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“Junior" - Rugby legend Rupeni Caucaunibuca's son gets first international call-up
Rupeni Caucau

The son of legendary Fiji winger Rupeni Caucaunibuca has earned a place in the Fijian Latui squad, the newly formed Europe-based team representing Fiji.

The Fiji Rugby Union have named a 37-man squad to face a Munster Selection side on November 14, before taking on Ireland A the following week.

Former Flying Fijians head coach Patrice Lagisquet will lead the group, which features players from France's Top 14 and Pro D2, domestic Skipper Cup talent and Fijian Drua prop Mesake Doge.

Among those selected is a familiar name for rugby fans, Rupeni Junior Caucaunibuca.

His father, Rupeni Caucaunibuca, made a huge impression in French rugby, scoring 65 tries in 108 appearances for Agen and Stade Toulousain.

He also starred for the Blues during their 2003 Super Rugby title-winning campaign.

The "Bua Bullet" gained widespread attention at the 2003 Rugby World Cup, scoring spectacular solo tries against France and Scotland.

However, his career was repeatedly disrupted by disciplinary bans, injuries and illness, preventing him from consistently fulfilling his immense potential.

Now retired, the former Fiji international has seen his son begin to make his own mark in the professional game.

Caucaunibuca Junior joined Montpellier in 2025 after impressing at school level in Fiji.

The move was reported by Fijian media in June 2025, with Montpellier beating competition from several other French clubs.

Fiji Sun reported that the Blues, Clermont, Montpellier and Toulouse had all expressed interest in bringing the youngster into their academy systems.

He ultimately opted for Montpellier, giving him the opportunity to develop within a French professional rugby environment.

The 20-year-old, who celebrated his birthday in September, is now playing for the Top 14 club and has earned another opportunity to progress with his Latui selection.

His athletic ability has already caught attention beyond rugby, having clocked an impressive 11.02 seconds in the 100 metres at the Fiji Finals last year.

In an interview with SUNsports in April 2025, Caucaunibuca Junior spoke about his ambition to follow in his father's footsteps.

He said: “I will try my best to reach where he (dad) left off or even better and revive his name on the rugby field.”

Confirmed Fiji Latui squad

Forwards

Emosi Tumania

Sylvester Vakauliafa

Sesoni Tamani

Ratu Osea Dasalusalu

Joseva Baleiloa

John Muller

Mesake Doge

Samuela Tawake

Kaliova Bulia

Peni Naruma

Petero Mailulu

Watsoni Waqanisabavi

Rt. Meli Turagaca

Isai Lotawa

Francis Peters

Apisalome Kurusaqila

Mosese Tabuakoto

Isoa Koroinawai

Joshua Thompson

Veresa Ramototabua

Backs

Cameron Kelemeti

Leone Nawai

Iliesa Baravilala

Joeli Baleilevuka

Wame Naitivi

Apete Narogo

Sireli Masiwini

Jope Naseara

Alipate Waidilo

Mosese Naura

Peni Asi Dakuwaqa

Semi Lagivala

Kaminieli Rasaku

Avakuki Niusalelekitoga

Josaia Ralulu

Rupeni Caucaunibuca Jnr

Setareki Tuicuvu

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