Ospreys sign Fiji captain Waisea Nayacalevu for season's remainder

The Ospreys have confirmed the signing of Fiji captain Waisea Nayacalevu until the end of the current season.

The experienced centre, who led Fiji to the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-finals, arrives as injury cover for Owen Watkin and is set to bring both leadership and firepower to the squad.

Nayacalevu, 34, recently joined Sale Sharks but has struggled for game time, making just four starts in the Gallagher Premiership. With a move already agreed for next season to French ProD2 club Stade Nicois, he will now focus on helping the Ospreys finish the season strongly.

Having trained with the squad last week, Nayacalevu is eager to make an impact in both the United Rugby Championship (URC) and Challenge Cup.

"It’s a real honour to be signing with the Ospreys. There’s some world-class talent here and I’m looking forward to playing alongside them."

The Fijian centre believes the Ospreys’ style of play suits his game and is confident in what he can contribute.

"Stepping into a team where quality experience is combined with exciting potential is ideal for me at this stage of my career. I believe I can contribute heavily to the squad this season, both on the field and off it."

The signing comes as Mark Jones continues to steady the ship following his early takeover as head coach. Since stepping into the role, Jones has lost just once in six matches, with the only defeat coming in a tight contest against Leinster in Swansea.