A STAR player in the HMS Seahawk side that recently lifted The Navy Cup has this week started training with the Cornish Pirates.

Timoci Kava, 26, is based at RNAS Culdrose, where he works in the logistics department.

Cornish Pirates Director of Rugby, Ian Davies, said: “Timoci impressed us when we watched the semi-final of The Navy Cup played at the Mennaye Field, and we are grateful not only to HMS Seahawk but also the Royal Navy rugby coaches for allowing him to spend a week with us.

“The Royal Navy have just started their rugby camp in preparation for the inter-services matches and the coaches feel exposure to our environment can only benefit Timoci in his rugby development.”

A Fijian back-rower who has also played in the centre and is a useful sevens player, Timoci is a physically robust performer with pace.

A member of a gifted rugby family, two of his brothers and two nephews have played at a high level and Timoci himself is presently a member of the Royal Navy squad.

Timoci is married to Mereoni, and the couple have one daughter.