News

Counties Manukau Rugby is devastated to hear of the passing of talented rugby player Pasikali Junior Naevo in Fiji this week.

The highly promising 18-year-old and Fiji U20s representative is the son of former Steelers and Pukekohe player Api Naevo and had strong ties to our region.

Both of his uncles (Simisi and Manoa) played in Counties Manukau, one of Pasikali's brothers is set to come out and play for Pukekohe this year while another is attending Wesley College.

He collapsed at training and passed away at Lautoka Hospital on Sunday.

"We send all our love to Api and family through what can only be the most difficult of circumstances," Counties Manukau Rugby chairman Gary Millington said.

"Api was a hugely popular player during his time in our Union and has remained a good friend ever since.

"I had the fortune of meeting Pasikali last month in Fiji. He was a player of tremendous promise, and was so close to his other brothers and sister.

"It is such a sad thing to happen to any family but especially to someone so close to our hearts.

"We want to help the family any way we could so we will be raising money for a signed jersey on Trade Me and giving the proceeds to assist with funeral costs."

The Trade Me auction can be found here.