The Fiji women’s rugby team will play two test matches as it prepares for the forthcoming Rugby World Cup.
The Fijiana will play New Zealand’s Wahine Māori side on Friday, September 16, and Canada on Friday, September 23.
Both matches kick off at 6pm and will be played at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Fiji Rugby Union Acting Chief Executive, Sale Sorovaki, says it’s a milestone for the union to host two high-profile teams.
He said the matches will give much-needed game time to the players ahead of Fiji’s first appearance at the Women’s World Cup, to be played in New Zealand in October and November.
“We have not played any international test matches here at home and to get Wahine Māori and Canada, is just setting up another level when it comes to women’s in rugby.
“With World Rugby’s initiative of dedicating the month of September to Women’s Rugby, these two matches are vital in promoting the women’s game in Fiji, and most importantly, give our Fijiana team the much-needed game time it needs leading up to our first ever participation in Women’s Rugby World Cup to be held in New Zealand.
“It is also a great opportunity for the fans who are raring to see our Fijiana girls play at home to come down on the two Saturdays and support the Fijiana 15s which will be flying our flag for the first time at Rugby World Cup in New Zealand,” said Sorovaki.
Meanwhile, Fijiana head coach Senirusi Seruvakula has named a 32-member extended squad for the two matches.
Seruvakula has ringed in changes and has included a few players who were impressive during the Oceania Championship earlier this year.
Players such as Bitila Tawake, Jade Coates, Sereima Leweniqila, Reijieli Laqeretabua and Roela Radiniyavuni will guide the pack.
Source: RNZ