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THE 122kg cousin of Lote Tuqiri is shaping as a saviour for the depleted Waratahs backline in next season's Super 14.
As NSW officials scour the globe to fill holes in the three-quarter line left by the sudden departures of Tuqiri and Timana Taha, a likely solution is on their doorstep.
Winger Ratu Nasiganiyavi is ready, judging by his red-hot form with Randwick.
The 21-year-old, who is contracted to the Waratahs, has powered his way over for 14 tries in eight games for the Galloping Greens.
In Saturday's win over Gordon, Nasiganiyavi steamrolled several rivals to score the first of his two tries.
After a frustrating debut season at NSW, he is starting to display his matchwinning ability on a consistent basis.
"I'm pretty happy with the way I'm going, but obviously I've got a lot to work on," Nasiganiyavi said.
"Lote and Timana are disappointingly gone, which is a big loss for the squad - but out of the negative there may be a positive of me getting a shot next year in Super 14."
Nasiganiyavi's talent was recognised when selected in the Barbarians squad, playing 35 minutes against England at Twickenham.
"I learnt a huge amount from guys like Jerry Collins in that two weeks and I'm trying to adapt that into the club rugby scene," he said.
"I think this year is more a confidence-booster for me and trying to prove to the coaches at the Waratahs I am worth a shot for next year."
Running out before a packed house at Twickenham made Nasiganiyavi realise how far he had come - 12 months ago he was trying to make ends meet driving for a plumbing supply company before being signed by NSW.
But at the start of this year he suffered a stress fracture of his foot, which ruled him out of the Super 14 campaign.
He knows fitness is a key if he wants to step up to Super 14 and he is putting himself through extra sessions.
Yesterday he was lifting weights in a deserted Waratahs gym with the aim of starting next season at 118kg.
"To be honest, I can't wait for the pre-season to come along," he said.
Waratahs coach Chris Hickey said Nasiganiyavi was a player with great potential who had impressed with his work ethic.
"We are very hopeful that with another good pre-season under his belt we will see the best of Ratu," Hickey said.
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