Mesu Kunavula signs new Edinburgh deal after 'exceptional' role in win over Brive

Fiji forward Mesu Kunavula is motivated to hit form ahead of next year's World Cup after signing a new Edinburgh contract.

The 26-year-old back-row forward has made 16 appearances since joining Edinburgh from Fiji Sevens in 2019 and made his Test debut in 2020.

He set up two tries during Edinburgh's 66-3 Challenge Cup win against Brive on Friday after two months out with a knee injury sustained during last November’s Autumn International against Spain.

Kunavula, who joins fellow Fijian star Viliame Mata in committing his long-term future to the club, said: "Firstly, I want to thank the Lord God for giving me strength and power and I want to thank all of the staff and coaches for giving me a chance and a new opportunity with a new deal. I really appreciate it and I’m really happy.

"Edinburgh feels like home, it means a lot to me. I've never signed for another club, so I appreciate it here.

"I enjoyed being back on the field after being away injured, which was tough for me, but I was really happy to be given another chance against Brive.

"I'm looking forward now. I'm happy because I'm getting a lot of opportunities to play. Next year is a World Cup year, so I'm going to work hard to improve myself and I want to try hard to play as much as I can."

Kunavula was voted Edinburgh's most improved player last season and scored a try against the All Blacks during the summer internationals.

He was part of a Fiji Sevens side that claimed silver at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and made his Fijian Test debut against Georgia at BT Murrayfield in 2020.

Head coach Mike Blair added: "It's brilliant that we're able to re-sign Mesu. He's a player with a hugely exciting skillset and a guy that is really popular at the club.

"His physical