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The NSW Waratahs have confirmed emerging wing star Taqele Naiyaravoro has signed a contract with Scottish side Edinburgh, but would been keen to retain his services if circumstances change.
Compared to All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu and tutored by fellow code hopper Israel Folau, Naiyaravoro scored a brilliant solo try in last week’s loss to Western Force.
It was his fourth five-pointer for the year, making him the Waratahs’ joint top tryscorer with fellow winger Rob Horne.
On Monday Naiyaravoro declined to comment on reports he had signed with Edinburgh, but Waratahs CEO Greg Harris said the 23-year-old back had a contractual obligation to the Scottish team.
Fiji-born Naiyaravoro wasn’t able to travel to the Waratahs’ two Super Rugby games in New Zealand because he he was awaiting a visa, but was optimistic he would get one before their two upcoming matches in South Africa.
Although NSW would like to retain Naiyaravoro’s services, Harris recognised the sensitivity surrounding the two factors affecting the winger’s situation.
“He’s got a contractual obligation to Edinburgh and the other one is he’s currently going through visa applications and I wouldn’t like to jeopardise either of those things,” Harris told AAP.
“Obviously the Waratahs would be very keen to retain his services, but it’s dependent upon a number of factors which we have no control over.
“If those circumstances change, then we’ll work from there.”
The 120 kilo-plus back has played down comparisons with his childhood idol Lomu following his sensational try in Perth, where he burst through four tackles to score on a 40-metre sideline run.
“He (Lomu) was a big idol for me. I’m nowhere near him,” Naiyaravoro said.
“I’ll try my best to get close to him.”
Although he wouldn’t comment on his contractual status, Naiyaravoro said his focus was on finishing the Super season with NSW and trying his best for the team.
Naiyaravoro, who came across from the Wests Tigers’ NRL club last year, said teammate Folau had boosted his confidence.
“That was my problem before when I was in league as well, confidence on using my size and speed,” Naiyaravoro said.
“I think when I got here he (Folau) opened the door for me and gave me that bit of motivation to use my size and just be confidant.”
Meanwhile Waratahs captain Michael Hooper has moved to allay concerns about the knee injury he suffered at the weekend.
Openside flanker Hooper was substituted after initially playing on with the injury incurred late in the game.
However the Waratahs’ openside flanker told team officials on Monday that his knee feels okay and he expects to train during the week and be able to play against the Sharks at Allianz Stadium on Saturday.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.