Rugby Union: Wildfires gun Nafi Tuitavake battling to shake COVID

Tuitavake tested positive to COVID-19 the morning of the Wildfires' opening trial against the NSW Waratahs on February 5.

He spent a week in isolation but is still struggling with his breathing and sat out the Mick "Whale" Curry Memorial Sevens and the hit-out against Newcastle Pasifika last Saturday.

"He is struggling with his lung capacity and is doing extra swimming to try and improve his fitness and breathing," Coleman said.

"He is finding it hard and is not back at 100 per cent. He trained with the group last night. He was a little bit lethargic and short of breath, but he got through it, which was a positive."

The Wildfires have a boot camp this weekend before meeting fellow Shute Shield club Manly at Marcellin Park on Saturday, March 5.

"Nafi should be able to play a part in that," Coleman said. 'We are still getting one to two players a week drop out with COVID. We have protocols in place and are managing the situation."

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Tuitavake, 32, was in South Africa last year and has played the majority of his career for Northampton Saints in England.

The 32-year-old is among three big time backline recruits alongside fellow Tongan Penikolo Latu and Fijian Luke Nadurutalo.

Youngster Isaac Ulhberg and Tyrone Beitaki have also emerged as options after strong performances in the Wildfires' 28-17 win over Newcastle Pasifika.

'They both went well. Isaac made a couple of line breaks and Tyrone was good," Coleman said. "He played wing, centres and had a taste at fullback and showed promise. His rugby smarts still need a bit of work. He lost the ball a couple of times in contact, but generally he was pretty good.

"We have some depth in the backline. As well as the young boys, Mike Saili, Tom Watson, Will Feeney, Jed Inglet and Tui Grant are also pushing for spots. Taulogo Lalaga is going to stay instead of heading to Perth. We are building well."

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