Sam Whitelock, a legend of the All Blacks, concluded his illustrious rugby career on a high note by leading the Barbarians to a 45-32 victory over a spirited Fiji team at Twickenham Stadium. The match featured try doubles from Lachlan Boshier, Jonny May, and Leicester Fainga’anuku, along with a try from Zach Mercer, showcasing the end-to-end action and securing the win for the Barbarians.
Despite being an under-strength side, Fiji put up a strong fight, with Epeli Momo scoring a hat-trick and Kemu Valentini adding another try, keeping the game competitive. Whitelock received a standing ovation when he was substituted late in the game, highlighting his remarkable career and raising questions about whether he could still compete at the highest level.
Whitelock’s impressive partnership with England international David Ribbans at lock was noteworthy, but it was Boshier, May, and Fainga’anuku who crossed for the Barbarians’ tries. Crusaders’ Chay Fihaki excelled at full-back, while former France teammates Gael Fickou and Virimi Vakatawa displayed their quality at centre.
Momo’s standout performance, including his hat-trick, was a bright spot for the young and inexperienced Fiji team, indicating a promising future. Fiji head coach Mick Byrne and his squad will take valuable lessons from this narrow defeat as they prepare for upcoming Tests against Georgia and New Zealand.
The Barbarians’ squad included:
– **Barbarians**: Chay Fihaki (15), Leicester Fainga’anuku (14), Virimi Vakatawa (13), Gael Fickou (12), Jonny May (11), Fergus Burke (10), Danny Care (9), Zach Mercer (8), Lachlan Boshier (7), Jack Cornelsen (6), Sam Whitelock (c) (5), David Ribbans (4), Kyle Sinckler (3), Harry Thacker (2), Scott Sio (1)
– **Replacements**: Shota Horie (16), Craig Millar (17), Kieran Brookes (18), Fabian Holland (19), Liam Mitchell (20), Ben Youngs (21), Jonathan Joseph (22), Cameron Woki (23)
– **Fiji**: Vilimoni Botitu (15), Epeli Momo (14), Epeli Waqaicece (13), Apisalome Vota (12), Taniela Rakuro (11), Caleb Muntz (10), Peni Matawalu (9), Elia Canakaivata (8), Motikiai Murray (7), Ratu Derenalagi (6), Ratu Rotuisolia (5), Mesake Vocevoce (4), Samuela Tawake (3), Zuriel Togiatama (2), Livai Natave (1)
– **Replacements**: Mesulame Dolokoto (16), Emosi Tuqiri (17), Meli Tuni (18), Isoa Nasilasila (19), Kitione Salawa (20), Moses Sorovi (21), Kemueli Valetini (22), Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula (23)
Whitelock’s departure marks the end of an era for a true rugby union great, with Twickenham rising to its feet in a fitting tribute to his legendary career.
