The Australian Fiji Rugby Union Under-20 team is set to play a significant role this week, serving as the opening act for Round One of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific match between the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika. This initiative reflects a crucial part of a development tour tailored to enhance Fiji Rugby’s Under-20 framework ahead of upcoming international fixtures.
Arriving in Nadi on Friday, the team was warmly welcomed by Saunaka Village, where they spent their first two nights and participated in a church service, emphasizing the tour’s cultural and communal significance. On-field preparations will commence shortly, as they face the Fiji Rugby Union Under-20 side at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, kicking off at 2 PM.
The tour will peak on Saturday when the AFRU Under-20s play against a Drua Development team in Lautoka, right before the highly anticipated encounter between Moana Pasifika and the Fijian Drua. Adding more competitive edge to their lineup, the AFRU team will include eight older players, bringing additional experience and strength to the match.
AFRU President Edwin Chan highlighted the importance of the tour, stating, “This tour is about more than just rugby — it’s about creating a genuine pathway for Australian-based Fijian players to be seen, developed, and ultimately contribute to Fiji Rugby at the highest level.” He praised the players for their hard work and dedication in representing their roots with pride.
This tour is made possible by the support of Electro Fire Technologies, with the AFRU expressing gratitude to the Fiji Rugby Union, Saunaka Village, the Fijian Drua, and the local community for their warm hospitality. As the Super Rugby Pacific season begins in Fiji, the performance of the AFRU Under-20s promises to not only highlight emerging talent but also showcase the depth and potential of Fiji’s future rugby stars.
Fans can catch this exciting action live on FBC Sports, as the Drua and Moana Pasifika are set to take the field at 3:35 PM this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
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