Visa issues ground Naiyaravoro

 

The Waratah's leading tryscorer this campaign, Naiyaravoro was unable to travel to Dunedin to play the Highlanders last month, and it has been confirmed the Fiji-born powerhouse won't make it to Wellington either.

 

"Taqele's visa application is an ongoing process and as such he is not able to travel overseas at this point in time," a spokeswoman for the Waratahs said.

 

The reigning champion Waratahs declined to comment on whether he would be available for subsequent games in South Africa later in the year which could prove decisive for their title defence.

 

The Waratahs play the Lions in Johannesburg on May 30 before taking on the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein in the penultimate round of the season.

 

Australia's immigration authority declined to comment on the Fijian's case.

 

Naiyaravoro's omission is a big blow for Michael Cheika's side who are currently 10th in the competition, as they prepare to take on the undefeated Hurricanes.

 

While the Waratahs are yet to name their side, assistant coach Daryl Gibson said Peter Betham should replace Naiyaravoro in the starting line-up against the competition leaders.

 

Source: Reuters