Fiji Rugby World Cup squad visit HMS Iron Duke in Bordeaux

Players from Fiji's Rugby World Cup squad have spent time on board Royal Navy ship HMS Iron Duke in Bordeaux.

The Royal Navy's Sam Matavesi was among the Fiji players to visit the Type 23 frigate which held a reception for the King and Queen on Friday during the final leg of their state visit to France.

Matavesi, who received a surprise Battlefield Promotion to the rank of Local Acting Leading Hand ahead of the Rugby World Cup in France, wrote on X: "Massive thanks to @HMSIronDuke Captain & sailors for the ships visit. @fijirugby boys had a great afternoon."

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Matavesi also shared photos of the players enjoying their time on the vessel.

The Fiji squad played their part in the King and Queen's visit to Bordeaux too, serenading the royal couple with a hymn as they rounded off their state visit to France in the southwestern city.

Fiji Rugby Union wrote on X: "Certainly a precious moment for Flying Fijians and Fiji Rugby as whole. Our team was greeted by His Majesty King Charles III. His Majesty also wished good luck to the team for the upcoming matches."

Matavesi, who plays hooker and also represents Royal Navy rugby union and Northampton Saints, started in Fiji's historic victory over Australia in the World Cup last week - Fiji's first win over Australia in 69 years.

The Fiji squad are now preparing to face Georgia as they continue their World Cup campaign.