'Big Tex' extends his contract at Harlequins

Fijian second row Tevita Cavubati has extended his Harlequins contract ahead of the 2021/22 Gallagher Premiership season.

The 30-times-capped international lock arrived at The Stoop late last year, joining from Newcastle Falcons following the conclusion of Fiji’s 2019 World Cup campaign in Japan.

Standing at 6ft 5ins and weighing 120kgs, Cavubati first arrived in England ahead of the 2015/16 season at Worcester Warriors before moving to Newcastle in May 2017.

He debuted for Fiji in 2011 against Tonga and has featured in the last two World Cups. Since arriving at the Stoop from Japan last October, he has made 15 appearances. 

“I grew up in Suva and Fiji has the most passionate rugby fans you will ever meet,” he said about his pride in representing the Londoners. 

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“The country follows all rugby clubs across the world that have Fijian players in their squads. You would see Harlequins jerseys constantly while growing up and people would talk about how they played.

“Since joining the club, I’ve had the pleasure of wearing the jersey 15 times so far and have loved every minute of it. While I obviously hope to bring a level of physicality to the game as a second row, Quins are a club that plays attractive rugby and I really value that. I’m delighted to be able to extend my time here.”

🌴 "I'm here to take the team forward."

🇫🇯 @TCavubati says he feels very at home at Harlequins after signing a new contract.#COYQ #Suvababy pic.twitter.com/IFGu17tfDU

— Harlequins 🃏 (@Harlequins) February 27, 2020

Quins boss Paul Gustard added: “We’re delighted ‘Tex’ has agreed to extend his time at the club. He has been a physically dominant presence and consistently secured Quins the type of gain line success that is so crucial in modern rugby – as both a destructive tackler and carrier.

“He’s a Fijian boy with real character and adds far more than just his outstanding contributions on the pitch, he’s a popular figure around the training ground. We’re delighted to have Tex extend his time with the club as we continue to build strong foundations for success.”

Cavubati joins team-mates Joe Marchant, Matt Symons, Paul Lasike, Will Collier, Luke Northmore and Alex Dombrandt in announcing the renewal of his contract, heading into the 2020/21 season.

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