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A Fijian rugby player is planning to miss his son's funeral in order to continue playing at the Rugby World Cup.
Josua Tuisova learned of his seven-year-old's death hours before Fiji took on Georgia in Bordeaux last Saturday, but opted to play the match, which Fiji won 17-12. It's understood his son, Tito, passed away following a long-term battle with an unspecified illness.
According to Fijian outlet Fiji Village, Tuisova's father Isikeli Ratulevu is handling funeral preparations in the town of Votua in the country's Ba province. Fiji face Portugal in their final pool stage match next Monday, and Tuisova is expected to play.
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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."
Fiji are on course to make the knockout stages of the World Cup for just the third time in their history following wins over Georgia and Australia in Pool C. Tuisova, 29, was named player of the match in the latter having formed a formidable centre partnership with Fiji captain Waisea Nayacalevu.
What do you make of Tuisova's decision? Let us know in the comments section below.
They need just one point to progress to the quarter-finals, where they'll likely to face England, who are currently top of Pool D after three wins from three. They could even top the group if Wales were to suffer a shock defeat to Georgia.
Known for his strong running and physical play, Tuisova has been nicknamed 'Human Bulldozer' and 'The Bus' by his team-mates. After a successful spell in sevens the Pacific Islander has been playing club rugby in France for his entire professional career, starting with Toulon before joining Lyon and most recently Racing 92 this summer.
- Rugby World Cup
- Rugby union
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