Regardless of the Chiefs' perfect start to 2023, Fijian Drua's emergence as a potential powerhouse has been the standout story of Super Rugby Pacific, says commentator Sir John Kirwan.
In their second season of Super Rugby after being introduced to the competition in 2022 alongside Moana Pasifika, the Drua have proven themselves to be a thorn in the side of any potential opponent.
On Saturday, the Fijian side added another scalp to their collection by defeating the Hurricanes in Suva, after already knocking over the Crusaders in Lautoka earlier in the season.
Coupled with wins over Melbourne Rebels and Moana Pasifika, the Drua have doubled their wins tally from 2022 (two) with three regular season games to go.
After 10 games, the Drua sit eighth on the ladder to occupy the final playoff spot, ahead of both the Rebels in ninth, and Highlanders in 10th.
And with games against Western Force (11th place), Moana Pasifika (12th) and the Reds (seventh) still to play - two of them at home - it's not beyond the realm of possibility that the Drua reach the playoffs for the first time.
Speaking on Sky Sport's The Breakdown on Sunday, former All Blacks and Japan coach Sir John Kirwan declared the Drua's success this season leaves them head and shoulders above the competition as the storyline of the year.
"That is the story of the year," said Sir John. "The Drua have done exactly what World Rugby and Super Rugby have asked of them.
"You do not want to go up there. You do not want to go up there and play. They've just beaten the Hurricanes, they've beaten the Crusaders at home.
"They have found this balance between playing Super Rugby, but also keeping their Fijian flair.
"We wanted Pasifika rugby, and they've taken it with both hands - I really hope they make the top eight."
The Drua travel to Perth on Friday to face the Force as part of an Australia road trip that will also see them visit Sydney to play the Waratahs the week after.
However, their final two games of the season will come against Moana Pasifika and the Reds in Lautoka and Suva respectively, as they push for a place in the top eight.
