Fijian prop Ben Nakubuwai reflects on his two-game NRL career with Gold Coast Titans

It was a fleeting two-game stint for Ben Nakubuwai at the Gold Coast Titans but the gentle Fijian giant looks back with nothing but fondness.

IT WAS a fleeting two-game stint for Ben Nakubuwai at the Gold Coast Titans but the gentle Fijian giant looks back with nothing but fondness.

Signed from the Melbourne Storm after time in their under-20 and SG Ball sides, NSW-born prop Nakubuwai arrived at the Titans as a 20-year-old at the end of 2016.

While he would play just twice in the NRL in 2017 – against Parramatta (Round 24) and Sydney Roosters (Round 26) - before leaving for English Super League outfit Salford, his time on the Glitter Strip left an indelible mark.

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“I wouldn’t say I have any regrets when I look back, I’m pretty content with my time at the club,” Nakubuwai, a member of Fiji’s 2017 World Cup squad, said.

Fiji's Ben Nakubuwai is tackled by New Zealand's Russell Packer and Adam Blair in a 2017 Rugby League World Cup quarter-final in Wellington. Picture: AFP Photo/Marty Melville

“The highlight for me at the club was when I was given the opportunity to make my NRL debut. That was a dream come true.

“When I was there I enjoyed the opportunity to live on the Gold Coast. It’s definitely a beautiful place to live and I would love to live there again.

“I met some really good people at the club and was also able to learn a lot about what it takes to be a professional.”

A Tweed Seagulls regular throughout 2017, Nakubuwai came off the bench in both appearances for the Titans, scoring a try in a 30-8 loss to Parramatta before playing in a 20-16 defeat to the Roosters.

Ben Nakubuwai (centre) of the Titans is tackled by Suaia Matagi (left), Tepai Moeroa and Cameron King (right) of the Eels. Picture: AAP Image

Still just 23, Nakubuwai said he was now relishing the chance to continue his rugby league education abroad.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here (at Salford) so far, it’s been good developing my game as a young forward. Away from the field it’s been awesome for me to be able to see this part of the world.

“I’ve been able to travel across the UK and Europe when we have time off.”

BEN NAKUBUWAI FACT FILE

Age: 23

Born: Leeton, NSW

Position: Prop

NRL debut: Round 24, 2017 vs Parramatta

NRL games: 2

Notes:

■ Signed from Melbourne Storm for 2017 season

■ Came off the bench to score a try on debut against the Eels

■ Now with Salford in English Super League, playing 25 games in 2018-19

■ Has played eight Tests for Fiji, including five at the 2017 World Cup