FIJI star Josua Tuisova reportedly missed his seven-year-old son’s funeral to stay at the Rugby World Cup as a match with England looms.
Tuisova’s dad Isikeli Ratulevu had to tell the centre that his son had passed away after a long illness.
GettyJosua Tuisova, right, of Fiji celebrates with Levani Botia[/caption]
The tragic news came just hours before the player helped in Fiji’s dramatic 17-12 win over Georgia in Bordeaux last Saturday.
Now according Fiji Village, Tuisova made the ultimate sacrifice for his team by missing his late son’s funeral today.
His dad has instead been making the necessary preparations for Tuisova’s son’s funeral in Votua, Ba.
Fiji play Portugal in their final group stage match next Monday.
And they are on course to make the knockout stages for only the third time in their history.
England look likely to be Fiji’s last-eight opponents as Steve Borthwick’s side sit atop of their group with three wins from three.
Tuisova has been a key part of Fiji’s World Cup campaign and was even named man-of-the-match in their 22-15 win over Australia.
But the death of his son was sadly announced on Friday, a day before Fiji’s win over Georgia.
A statement read: “With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Tito Micgabraph Donzel Ratulevu.
“He is the son of Mr Josua Tuisova and Mrs Katarina Ladoge Ramoce.
“Affectionately known as “Tito,” he peacefully departed after a prolonged battle with a debilitating illness in Lautoka hospital.”
GettyJosua Tuisova during Fiji’s win over Georgia[/caption] Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
