Vuate Karawalevu switches code to join Waratahs

New South Wales Waratahs have announced the signing of Fijian Bati International Vuate Karawalevu on a two-year contract ahead of the 2024 season.

The 22-year-old made his debut in the rugby league for Fiji against Italy in 2022 and has three caps to his name. He was also contracted to Sydney Roosters which he joined in 2023.

He will now switch code to the rugby union and join Waratahs ahead of the new season.

“I’ve spent a couple of years in rugby league, but I am incredibly excited to be back playing rugby union, the game I played throughout my whole life," he told the club's official website.

“Getting the opportunity to come to a team like the NSW Waratahs is incredible, I’d like to thank the coaches for giving me an opportunity to get back into the game I love, to train hard and hopefully I get the chance to showcase what I can do and pull on the jersey next season”.

Waratahs head coach Darren Coleman is excited about the prospect of Karawalevu joining the club.

“Really excited to have Vuate join our squad," he said.

"Since meeting him mid-year, he’s a very open and positive guy. He’s got a lot of work to do but we are all excited to get him back to his natural sport and based on what we have seen in the back half of Shute Shield where he joined West Harbour, he knows his way to the try line."