The Fijian international prop arrived in Cardiff late last week and has already been working hard to get to know his new colleagues before the start of the season.
Ma’afu, who has won six caps for his country since his debut in 2010, is enjoying the early stages of his stay as he looks to build on his reputation as an impressive scrummager and ball carrier.
“I’ve been given a great opportunity to play for the Cardiff Blues and I know all the teams in the league take the competition very seriously. I’m sure it will be tough but I want to test myself,” Ma’afu, who joined from Australian outfit West Harbour Pirates, told the Blues website.
“I’m still trying to settle in and adjust my body clock after the jet lag, because of the time difference between here and Australia. I landed early Friday at about 5am and I’m just starting to get used to it, so am feeling a lot fresher.
“I’ve been to the training centre and it’s awesome, so it’s great to be here and I’m looking forward to playing.
“We came as a squad to the Royal Welsh Show so it’s been good to spend some time with my new team mates. It’s been good to meet some of the fans also.
“The session we did was pretty intense, but it’s what I expected as I knew the squad would be having a hard pre season.”
Ma’afu featured for Fiji in the 16-16 draw with Wales at the Millennium Stadium in November 2010 and was part of his country’s squad at the 2011 World Cup, while his brother Salesi is a current Australian international.
