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Mata Extends Bristol Bears Stay to 2027
Flying Fijian No.8 Viliame Mata has extended his contract with Gallagher Premiership club Bristol Bears through the 2027 season.
Known affectionately by fans as “Big Bill,” the 34-year-old from Nauluvatau, Tailevu, has made 28 appearances for the Bears since his debut in 2024. He has earned 38 caps for Fiji and scored 11 tries in his two seasons at Bristol.
Director of Rugby Pat Lam praised Mata’s impact on the team:
“He delivered exactly what we were looking for. In his first season, we returned to the top four, and this year we are firmly on track to compete for silverware. Bill is one of the most destructive, skillful ball carriers and defenders in world rugby, and he sets the physical tone for us every time he pulls on the shirt.”
Mata expressed his delight at remaining with the club:
“I’m very happy to extend my time here at Bristol Bears. From the moment I arrived, I felt the belief from the coaches, the players, and the supporters. This club has big ambitions, and I want to be part of achieving something special. Playing in front of the Bears fans at Ashton Gate is something I really enjoy, and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.”
Buliruarua Extends Stay at Perpignan
Former Flying Fijian centre Eneriko Buliruarua has committed his future to French Top 14 side Perpignan, extending his contract until 2028.
The 28-year-old from Nakarabo, Vaturova, Cakaudrove, joined Perpignan last season, making 31 appearances, including 20 starts, and scoring six tries. He notably scored the decisive try against Clermont in USAP’s first Top 14 victory of the season (26-20, Round 12).
A former Labasa College student, Buliruarua came through the Toulon academy and later played for Brive, La Rochelle, and Bayonne. Since 2017, he has played 96 Top 14 matches and debuted for the Flying Fijians in July 2021 against the All Blacks in New Zealand. He also shares maternal ties to Vatudamu in Savusavu.
