Joel Matavesi was born on 27 May 1995 into a family where rugby was more than just a sport; it was a way of life. Growing up in Cornwall, he was surrounded by a strong rugby culture, and with two brothers, Josh and Sam, also pursuing professional careers, the game was firmly embedded in the household. His Fijian heritage through his father added another layer of rugby tradition, as Fiji is a country where rugby is deeply cherished. From his earliest days, Joel displayed the determination and physical attributes that would later help him carve out a career in the professional game.
As a youngster, Matavesi was part of the Exeter Chiefs Academy, where he learned the technical and tactical side of modern rugby. This early exposure to a professional environment gave him the grounding needed to transition into senior rugby. His ability to adapt quickly and his natural flair in the fly-half role marked him out as a player to watch. Unlike many who specialise in one narrow position, Joel showed versatility by being comfortable at fly-half and inside centre, making him a valuable option for coaches.
Stint with Ospreys and Redruth RFC
Before breaking fully into the English Premiership scene, Joel had the opportunity to broaden his rugby education by spending time with the Ospreys in Wales. Playing outside of England added new dimensions to his game, particularly in understanding different styles of rugby management and tactics.
Following this, he gained valuable experience at Redruth RFC, one of Cornwall’s proud rugby clubs. Playing for Redruth was significant not only because it helped him develop physically against hardened opposition but also because it kept him connected to his Cornish roots. For Joel, it was a period of growth that sharpened his resilience and prepared him for the challenges of the professional stage.
Newcastle Falcons: A Major Step Forward
In the summer of 2017, Joel joined Newcastle Falcons alongside his older brother, Josh. This was a crucial step in his professional journey, as it gave him the opportunity to play Premiership rugby. Training with seasoned internationals and performing at the highest level in English club rugby required a blend of skill, discipline, and mental toughness.
Joel’s breakthrough moment came when he scored a try on his Premiership debut against Sale Sharks in 2021. For any player, a debut in the top flight is a special occasion, but to cross the line and make a mark in that very first game is something unforgettable. Though he made only five first-team appearances, each one contributed to his confidence and professional development.
At Newcastle, Joel’s time was defined by his ability to cover multiple roles in the backline, a quality that often makes the difference in tightly contested games. His kicking from hand, eye for a gap, and solid defensive work meant he was trusted to handle responsibilities when called upon.
Northampton Saints and the Bedford Connection
In March 2022, Joel signed a short-term contract with Northampton Saints after a successful trial. This opportunity came after a loan spell at Bedford Blues, Northampton’s partner club. His time at Bedford Blues during that loan was instrumental in showcasing his talent to the Saints’ coaching staff.
While at Northampton, Joel added further Premiership experience to his career, and although his stay was short, it underlined his reputation as a reliable and professional player who could slot into a squad and contribute immediately. His move also highlighted the value of strong club partnerships in English rugby, where players can seamlessly transition between Championship and Premiership setups.
Bedford Blues: Establishing Himself
After his loan and short spell with Northampton, Joel continued his journey with Bedford Blues, a club that has built a reputation for giving players the platform to shine. In July 2024, Bedford Blues confirmed that Matavesi had become a permanent member of the squad for the 2024/25 Championship season.
At Bedford, Joel found a balance between consistent playing opportunities and the ability to refine his game management as a fly-half. His role was not only about directing play but also about mentoring younger players and contributing to the squad culture. His leadership qualities began to emerge more strongly, as he became a figure teammates could look to in challenging matches.
The Championship is often described as a tough, unforgiving competition, and excelling there requires not just skill but also mental fortitude. Joel’s performances in a Bedford shirt demonstrated both qualities, reinforcing his reputation as a dependable backline operator.
Move to France: USBPA Bourg-en-Bresse
On 13 April 2025, Bedford Blues announced that Joel Matavesi would be departing at the end of the 2024/25 season to join USBPA Bourg-en-Bresse, a club competing in France’s Nationale 1 league. This move marked the first time he committed to a full professional contract outside of the UK.
Playing in France offers new challenges and opportunities. French rugby is known for its physicality, passionate supporters, and distinct style of play. For Joel, this transfer is not just a career progression but also a chance to experience rugby in a different cultural environment. Joining USBPA is likely to test and expand his abilities further, while also exposing him to the unique atmosphere of French club rugby.
For many English players, moving abroad helps them rediscover enjoyment in the game and opens new pathways both on and off the pitch. Given Joel’s adaptability and positive attitude, the transition to France could well be one of the most defining chapters of his career.
Style of Play and Strengths
Joel Matavesi is best known as a versatile backline player, capable of operating both at fly-half and inside centre. This dual ability makes him valuable in modern rugby, where squads need depth and flexibility.
Key attributes include:
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Distribution Skills: His passing range allows him to open up attacking opportunities.
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Tactical Kicking: Joel is capable of controlling territory with intelligent kicks.
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Physical Presence: At 95 kg, he combines strength with agility, making him a solid defender as well as an attacking threat.
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Game Management: He has a calm approach in directing play, especially under pressure.
Coaches value players who can perform consistently in more than one position, and Joel’s versatility has ensured that he remains an attractive option for multiple clubs.
Family Influence and Rugby Heritage
Joel is part of the renowned Matavesi rugby family. His older brother, Josh Matavesi, has enjoyed a high-profile career with clubs such as Racing 92, Bath, and Newcastle Falcons, while also representing Fiji internationally. His younger brother, Sam Matavesi, has become a regular for Northampton Saints and the Fiji national team, playing at hooker.
Growing up with two brothers of such calibre created a competitive but supportive environment. Each sibling pushed the others to raise their standards, and this dynamic helped all three carve out professional careers. The Matavesi family has become a respected name in the rugby community, symbolising both Fijian flair and Cornish determination.
Legacy and Future Prospects
While Joel may not have had the same level of international exposure as his brothers, his career demonstrates the value of perseverance, adaptability, and professionalism. From his early days in the Exeter Academy to his current move to France, every stage of his journey has contributed to shaping him into a complete player.
At 29 years old in 2025, he still has several seasons ahead of him, and the move to USBPA could revitalise his career. Success in France could open further doors, whether in higher-tier European competitions or even in coaching and mentoring roles in the future.
Beyond statistics, Joel’s story is one of resilience. Many players fade after limited Premiership appearances, but Joel has continued to push boundaries and find opportunities to grow. His willingness to embrace new challenges highlights his dedication to rugby as both a profession and a passion.
Conclusion
Joel Matavesi’s career is a testament to steady growth, adaptability, and the love of the game. From Cornwall to the Premiership, from the Championship to French Nationale 1, his journey reflects both determination and humility. While his brothers may have captured more headlines, Joel has built his own story through hard work, versatility, and an unshakeable commitment to rugby.
As he embarks on the next phase of his career with USBPA Bourg-en-Bresse, fans will be eager to see how he adapts to French rugby and what new heights he can reach. For now, Joel Matavesi stands as an inspiring example of a player who has continually sought improvement, embraced change, and shown that every chapter in rugby matters, no matter how big or small.
