Waisea Nayacalevu Leaves Ospreys After Short-Stint, Citing Personal Reasons

Waisea Nayacalevu’s brief tenure at the Ospreys has come to an end with immediate effect, the Welsh rugby region confirmed on Friday. The 34-year-old Fijian international joined the Ospreys in February on a short-term deal from Sale Sharks. However, despite his arrival with high expectations, Nayacalevu did not make a single appearance for the club during his time in Wales.

Nayacalevu’s departure is attributed to personal reasons. Last weekend, head coach Mark Jones revealed that the centre had been dealing with a “personal matter” that prevented him from making his anticipated debut in the Ospreys’ match against Connacht. At the time, Jones explained that the club was allowing Nayacalevu time to address the issue, prioritizing his well-being and family life.

The Ospreys have now confirmed that they mutually agreed to part ways with Nayacalevu, with the club’s statement on Friday outlining that his short-term contract had been ended earlier than initially planned. The statement read, “Waisea signed in February and was due to remain with the Club until June, but due to personal reasons, it has been mutually agreed to end his contract with immediate effect. We wish him the best for his future endeavours.”

Nayacalevu had been signed to cover for Owen Watkin, who was sidelined due to injury. However, with the Fijian star unable to take the field, the Ospreys will now need to reassess their squad options. Nayacalevu is expected to move to Stade Nicois for the upcoming season, further marking the end of his short, unfinished chapter with the Ospreys.

While the circumstances surrounding his exit have been somewhat unclear, Jones was supportive of Nayacalevu’s need to address personal matters, stressing the importance of family during challenging times. “He has got a personal matter at the moment where we are allowing him to spend time with his family,” Jones said. “We feel that is important and we are giving him the time to get that right. Once that is bottomed out, we will see where he is at and where we can go next with him.”

Though his stint in Wales was brief, Nayacalevu’s exit underscores the Ospreys’ commitment to player welfare during difficult personal situations. The club’s focus now shifts back to the remainder of the season, as they look to strengthen their squad and push towards their objectives.