Gallagher Premiership round seven away to Harlequins on November 29 is the Bears’ debut date ringed in his calendar but who knows, we might see him sooner if he is ready and Fiji want him involved on a four-match tour where three of the matches fall under the World Rugby regulation nine player release.
It was last January when Bristol revealed that the Fijian back-rower would join them for the 2024/25 season from Edinburgh, the Scottish club he had played for since 2026/17.
The Fijian juggernaut will depart Edinburgh a legend, and an example of looking after your talent.
The Pacific Islander is currently playing his eighth season with Edinburgh in the URC, but he is now a confirmed signing for the Gallager Premiership.
Edinburgh address the future of Bill Mata amid speculation Bristol are poised to move for the Fiji No.8.
Bristol Bears are reportedly eyeing the acquisition of Fiji's No.8 sensation, Viliame 'Bill' Mata, from Scottish URC outfit Edinburgh.
Fiji international Viliame Mata will become the first non-Scotland-qualified player to reach 100 Edinburgh appearances when he lines up against Zebre on Saturday in Italy.
Recent URC quarter-finalists Edinburgh have started their pre-season for the 2022/23 campaign and head coach Mike Blair has now provided an injury update on Jamie Ritchie (hamstring), Nick Haining (shoulder), Viliame Mata (knee), Henry Immelman (knee) and Boan Venter (knee).
Rio Olympics gold medal winner Bill Mata was in demand over the winter as other clubs courted him but the Fijian is staying at Edinburgh.