The NRL and wider rugby communities are mourning the death of dual international Fili Seru at the age of 56. The Fijian flyer played 10 Tests in rugby union from 1990 to 1993 and played in the Rugby World Cup in 1991.
He then took his talents to rugby league and played in the inaugural South Queensland Crushers team in 1995 alongside legends like Mario Fenech and Trevor Gilmeister. After one season at the Brisbane-based club he signed with the Illawarra Steelers, playing 20 games for the Wollongong club between 1996 and 1997 where he was teammates with the likes of Paul McGregor and Mark Coyne.
Fili Seru was a dual international and played for the inaugural South Queensland Crushers side in 1995. Image: Hull FC/South Queensland Crushers
Seru finished his career in the English Super League with Hull FC, scoring 15 tries in 42 games. He also played four Tests for Fiji in league – including the 1993 World Cup – taking his career tally to 14 across both codes.
The 56-year-old passed away this week after a battle with Motor Neurone Disease. MND is a neurological disease that destroys the motor nerves in the brain and spinal cord and affect a person’s voluntary muscles. It erodes a person’s ability to move, speak, swallow and breathe.
Hull FC said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player Fili Seru. The Fijian cross-code international winger made 43 appearances for the club between 1998 and 1999, and was a key member of the club’s first-ever Super League squad. The thoughts and condolences of everyone at the club are with Fili’s family and friends. Rest In Peace, Fili.”
Fili Seru during a rugby Test for Fiji in 1993.
(Shaun Botterill)Rugby and league communities mourn Fili Seru
Fellow Super League club Leeds Rhinos wrote: “Sad to hear the news that former Hull FC player Fili Seru has passed away from MND aged just 56. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all connected with the club at this time.”
Fiji Rugby Union said: “His contributions to Fiji rugby and the pride he brought to the nation will never be forgotten. To his family, friends, former teammates, and the wider rugby community, we extend our heartfelt condolences during this difficult time.”
While The Tier 2 Rugby account added: “Yet another rugby player taken too young by the cruel disease of MND. He played in World Cups in both Union and League in the 90s for Fiji.”