Vakatawa grateful to Lam for giving him a chance at Bears

VIRIMI Vakatawa says he feels blessed to be playing rugby again after being told last year that a heart condition meant his career was over.

- PAUL REES

The 31-year old France powerhouse centre had been a central figure in the national side as they geared up for this year's World Cup, but the decision taken by the Top 14 governing body's medical committee meant he could not play at any level in the country.

He took a second opinion this year and after being cleared to play was signed by Bristol after the club's director of rugby, Pat Lam, coached the Barbarians earlier this year with Vakatawa part of the squad.

"I an so grateful to Pat for giving me another opportunity and to the medical team as well," said the Fiji born Vakatawa, right, who has made five starts for Bristol. "Nothing has changed for me other than I am playing for a new team in a different environment.