The son of legendary Fiji winger Rupeni Caucaunibuca has earned a place in the Fijian Latui squad, the newly formed Europe-based team representing Fiji.
The Fiji Rugby Union have named a 37-man squad to face a Munster Selection side on November 14, before taking on Ireland A the following week.
Former Flying Fijians head coach Patrice Lagisquet will lead the group, which features players from France's Top 14 and Pro D2, domestic Skipper Cup talent and Fijian Drua prop Mesake Doge.
Among those selected is a familiar name for rugby fans, Rupeni Junior Caucaunibuca.
His father, Rupeni Caucaunibuca, made a huge impression in French rugby, scoring 65 tries in 108 appearances for Agen and Stade Toulousain.
He also starred for the Blues during their 2003 Super Rugby title-winning campaign.
The "Bua Bullet" gained widespread attention at the 2003 Rugby World Cup, scoring spectacular solo tries against France and Scotland.
However, his career was repeatedly disrupted by disciplinary bans, injuries and illness, preventing him from consistently fulfilling his immense potential.
Now retired, the former Fiji international has seen his son begin to make his own mark in the professional game.
Caucaunibuca Junior joined Montpellier in 2025 after impressing at school level in Fiji.
The move was reported by Fijian media in June 2025, with Montpellier beating competition from several other French clubs.
Fiji Sun reported that the Blues, Clermont, Montpellier and Toulouse had all expressed interest in bringing the youngster into their academy systems.
He ultimately opted for Montpellier, giving him the opportunity to develop within a French professional rugby environment.
The 20-year-old, who celebrated his birthday in September, is now playing for the Top 14 club and has earned another opportunity to progress with his Latui selection.
His athletic ability has already caught attention beyond rugby, having clocked an impressive 11.02 seconds in the 100 metres at the Fiji Finals last year.
In an interview with SUNsports in April 2025, Caucaunibuca Junior spoke about his ambition to follow in his father's footsteps.
He said: “I will try my best to reach where he (dad) left off or even better and revive his name on the rugby field.”
Confirmed Fiji Latui squad
Forwards
Emosi Tumania
Sylvester Vakauliafa
Sesoni Tamani
Ratu Osea Dasalusalu
Joseva Baleiloa
John Muller
Mesake Doge
Samuela Tawake
Kaliova Bulia
Peni Naruma
Petero Mailulu
Watsoni Waqanisabavi
Rt. Meli Turagaca
Isai Lotawa
Francis Peters
Apisalome Kurusaqila
Mosese Tabuakoto
Isoa Koroinawai
Joshua Thompson
Veresa Ramototabua
Backs
Cameron Kelemeti
Leone Nawai
Iliesa Baravilala
Joeli Baleilevuka
Wame Naitivi
Apete Narogo
Sireli Masiwini
Jope Naseara
Alipate Waidilo
Mosese Naura
Peni Asi Dakuwaqa
Semi Lagivala
Kaminieli Rasaku
Avakuki Niusalelekitoga
Josaia Ralulu
Rupeni Caucaunibuca Jnr
Setareki Tuicuvu
