Lalakai Louis Arapeta Foketi, born on December 22, 1994, is a professional rugby union player who plays as a centre for the Waratahs in Super Rugby. Although born in New Zealand, he represents Australia at the international level due to eligibility grounds.
Foketi rose to prominence in 2013 with standout performances for the Manly Marlins colts side. His impressive displays caught the attention of the Melbourne Rebels, and he was included in their extended playing squad for the 2014 Super Rugby season.
Despite not being expected to feature much in his debut season, injuries to Rebels backline players provided him with an opportunity to earn his first Super Rugby cap against the Waratahs on May 23, 2014.
Prior to his Super Rugby career, Foketi represented Australia Schoolboys in 2012 and played for the Australia Under 20 side in the 2013 and 2014 IRB Junior World Championships.
Originally from Hamilton, New Zealand, Foketi made a name for himself as a Colt with the Manly Marlins in Sydney. His talent did not go unnoticed, and he earned selections for the Australian Under 20 side in 2013 and 2014.
After securing a contract with the Melbourne Rebels in 2014, Foketi made his Super Rugby debut against the Waratahs. Following a brief stint with Bayonne in France, he moved to New Zealand to join Bay of Plenty.
Returning to New South Wales, Foketi joined the Waratahs and made his Super Rugby debut for the team against the Stormers on February 24, 2018, at Allianz Stadium.
He continued to establish himself as a key player for the Waratahs, making 30 appearances in Super Rugby by the time the 2020 season was cut short due to the global pandemic.
In July 2021, Foketi signed a new contract with the Waratahs, reaffirming his commitment to the team. With his experience and skills as a centre, Foketi aims to contribute to the success of the Waratahs in Super Rugby.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Foketi has been named in the training squad for Australia.
KG(08/07/2023)
Career
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NSW Waratahs Outside Centre |
2018 - present |
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Melbourne Rebels Outside Centre |
2014 - 2014 |
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Greater Sydney Rams Right Wing |
2014 - 2014 |
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Bayonne Outside Centre |
2014 - 2015 |
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Bay of Plenty Outside Centre |
2015 - 2017 |
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Australia A Outside Centre |
2022 - 2023 |
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Sydney Rays Outside Centre |
2019 - 2024 |
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Australia Outside Centre |
2021 - 2024 |
