Matt Banahan backing Semesa Rokoduguni to run riot for Bath Rugby

Matt Banahan is backing fellow Bath Rugby wing Semesa Rokoduguni to make a big impact in the Aviva Premiership this season.

The Fijian is a reconnaissance tank soldier of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and joined the club last October after an impressive trial and went on to score two tries on debut in an LV= Cup victory over Newport Gwent Dragons.

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   Semesa Rokoduguni can shine for Bath Rugby this season, according to fellow wing Matt Banahan

   
   

He continued to shine as the 2012-13 season drew to a close, prompting director of rugby Gary Gold to hand him a new deal at The Rec in May, and Banahan says the Fijian has improved again following a full pre-season at Premiership level.

“With Roko, I think the world is his oyster. It’s great to see him playing so well,” said 16-cap England international Banahan.

 

“He is very raw but he has got such talent with his pace and his power. I think he has put on seven to nine kilos since when he started with us last year.

“You can see that he is not learning the game like he was last year, he is now moulding the game to suit how he plays with the lines he runs. To see what he does on the pitch now compared to 12 months ago is fantastic.”

Rokoduguni turned 26 last week and celebrated with his third try of pre-season in the 27-10 victory over Ospreys at The Rec on Friday. If he can carry that form into the competitive campaign, Banahan expects the Fijian national side to come calling.

“It’s always great to be playing in a strong squad but to see individuals blossom and bloom is even better. Hopefully he might get recognised internationally for Fiji,” said Banahan, who also touched down three times in pre-season.

“We play as a squad and you want every individual to fulfil their potential. You want the English players to play for England, if they’re Welsh you want them to play for Wales. Hopefully he can fulfil his potential.

“I think the enthusiasm to not be out in Afghanistan is what drives him. He’s got stories to go with it but he is a nice gentleman as well.

“That’s what you enjoy, seeing someone who is humble and enjoying what they have been given. The opportunity has been given to him to play for Bath and he has taken it with both hands. It’s great to have him around.”

Matt Banahan backing Semesa Rokoduguni to run riot for Bath Rugby